The city is preparing to kick off its annual Corporate Challenge on Friday, Aug. 9.

This year's challenge brings together 54 companies—including 19 that are based in Richardson—to compete in 10 weeks' worth of Olympic-style events, including basketball, a 5K run, cornhole, dodgeball, golf, soccer, Texas Hold 'em, volleyball and more.

Opening ceremonies will be held at Galatyn Plaza at 5:30 p.m. The event will include food and drinks, a presentation of colors by the Richardson Fire and Police departments, lighting of the ceremonial torch, an athlete parade, an executive relay, spirit awards and more.

Money raised during the challenge benefits Special Olympics Texas. Over $2.6 million has been raised since the program's inception in 1997. A quarter of the money raised is held aside for grants, which teams use to buy uniforms or equipment. Eighteen regional teams benefited from the grant program last year, according to city staff.