Goodwill Games begin

NEW YORK, July 19: The Goodwill Games, touted as the alternative to the Olympic experience that offers money, as well as gold medals, to winners got under way. Yesterday in Lower Manhattan, revelry, fireworks and songs opened the Games8217; 15 days of multi-sport competition.

More than 1,300 athletes from 60 countries, representing sports like swimming, gymnastics and ice skating yes, even in the summer, are expected to compete in the Games.

The real Goodwill Games competition starts today, with big names like Olympic champs Michael Johnson, Alexander Popov, Dan O8217;Brien and Jackie Joyner-Kersee on hand.