In 1911, soon after the very first Optimist Club was formed in Buffalo, New York, an Optimist movement took place and Optimist Clubs were forming throughout the United States and Canada. Optimist International was formed in 1919, as the organization that connects all Optimist Cubs Internationally. All Optimist Clubs have the opportunity to compete in 1 of 3 International Scholarship contests: the Oratorial, the Essay and the Communication Contest for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. Additionally, there is Tri-Star Sports. This is an optional activity Clubs can sponsor that focuses on three skills competitions in each of the following sports: baseball, baseball, soccer, football, hockey, golf, curling and volleyball.