The Near Side

Regional events for now or later.

GOING FOR THE GOLD. Nearly 10,000 athletes of all ages face off in 45 sports at the Virginia Commonwealth Games in the Roanoke area. On July 16-18, see gymnast (and Olympic gold medalist) Kerri Strug, the Parade of Athletes and the lighting of the caldron at the Opening Ceremonies, followed by two days of Olympic-style competition. There's the traditional archery-through-wrestling line-up, plus a few sports (like cheerleading and skateboarding) that you won't find in Athens.

Venues and times vary. Opening Ceremonies $8, Gold Medal spectator pass $15 for the entire event. About 3 hours 45 minutes from the Beltway in and around Roanoke 540-343-0987, www.commonwealthgames.org.

-- Anne McDonough