The 43rd Empire State Winter Games (ESWG) Torch Relay wrapped up its five-day epic journey in Lake Placid Thursday, Feb. 2. The games themselves commenced last night at 6 p.m. with an opening ceremony. The competitions begin Friday and run through Sunday. The ESWG is the largest multi-sport amateur winter sporting event in North America. This year it is expected to draw around 2,000 athletes competing in more than 20 events in Lake Placid, Saranac Lake, Tupper Lake, Paul Smiths and surrounding areas.