Kelly Clarkson, big crowd highlight opening ceremonies of Warrior Games in Colorado Springs

Patriotic music, parades of athletes, celebrity appearances and a free concert were part of the entertainment Saturday in Colorado Springs for the opening ceremonies of the annual Warrior Games.

Organizers estimated a crowd of 34,000 attended the three-hour event at Falcon Stadium on the Air Force Academy campus.

For many, the highlight of the evening was a free concert by popular singer Kelly Clarkson and her band.

“Can you imagine how expensive it would be to buy tickets to a concert like that?” asked Jerry Needham, who acquired free tickets for his family of five. “But that’s the kind of person she is. Very giving and very supportive of the military. We’ve been fans of hers ever since she won American Idol.”

The 300 athletes participating in the games were cheered on during a series of parades and inspirational videos. The athletes and their families sat on the field at the front of the stage.

Strong winds that postponed athletic events Friday returned Saturday and threatened to snuff out the torches and symbolic flame for the games.

“Because of the windy weather, the torch is unable to light the flame,” the public address announcer told the audience.

But one torch-bearer persisted until the flame ignited.

“It’s like trying to light a grill in Colorado,” he said, to enthusiastic applause. “You have to keep going until it’s ready.”

The ceremonies started at 6 p.m. and ended shortly after 9 p.m.

The games to honor disabled active duty and retired military will continue through the week, with closing ceremonies scheduled for next weekend.