The Patriot Games, a nationwide school sports competition backed by the White House, concluded with a prime-time ABC special that critics panned as some of the most leaden television of America's 250th birthday summer. The event, held at Spire Academy in Geneva, Ohio, featured President Donald Trump presenting trophies and $125,000 college scholarships to the boys' and girls' winners.
A Dismal Spectacle
The one-hour broadcast, produced by Freedom 250, the White House-backed non-profit that also hosted a UFC fight at the White House and the Great American State Fair, showcased highlights from qualifying rounds before the final competition. The finals saw Kennadi Fuhrman and Rockwell Myers win after their opponents fell on the 'American traverse' obstacle, part of the 'Patriot Course' that included ropes, hoops, kettle bells, and a climb up 'patriot's peak'.
Critics described the event as 'the Hunger Games ordered off Temu', noting the awkward teenage participants, a sparse crowd, and a soundtrack of rap-rock and screeching eagles. Co-host Matt Barrie exclaimed 'What a way to start!' as competitors shuffled through events like the medicine ball toss, agility shuttle, 55m hurdles, and flexed arm hang.
Presidential Cameo
The climax featured a two-minute interview with Trump, who said 'Well I love Ohio' and 'This has been as exciting as anything, I got here and I didn't know what to expect'. The broadcast also included a tug of war, Victory Hoops, and dodgeball, with one participant calling it 'one of the best experiences of my life'.
The winners thanked God on the victory dais as Trump presented their trophies and checks. The event, while brief, was seen as a letdown, with no sequel likely to be clamored for.
