Sarasota gets pumped up for inaugural sports festival

After more than a year of planning and preparation, Mayor Suzanne Atwell’s vision for a sports festival in downtown Sarasota is finally coming to fruition. Sports festivals have seen increased popularity nationwide, but this marks the first time such an event has taken place in Sarasota.

This Saturday, June 16, families, athletes and area residents will head to Payne Park to participate in the inaugural Sarasota Sports Festival.

“About a year-and-a-half ago, we had a meeting to figure out some kind of sports event for families that would help enhance Payne Park,” said Mayor Atwell. “Sports festivals like these were growing across the country, and it seemed like an opportunity to enhance our local venues. I feel that Payne Park is underutilized, and this will really help put the park on the map for future events.”

Ringling Bros. will perform 3 CircusFit shows. The family-friendly sports festival will kick the day off with a half-mile family fun run/walk around the park’s track, and festivities will continue throughout the afternoon with activities including a toddler BMX Strider parade, disc golf, USTA 10 and younger tennis, skateboarding and fitness classes led by Gold’s Gym instructors.

The festival will also be centered on the grand opening of Payne Park’s new circus-themed playground, where Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey plan to hold an unspecified special performance.

Atwell says the free event, which will take place rain or shine, is a great opportunity for families and people of all ages to experience a variety of sports and activities.

So, whether you’re a sports nut or are simply looking to get out of the house on a Saturday, come try a Tai Chi class, enjoy the live music, or even get a photo with the Baltimore Orioles’ mascot.

“I hope this is an event that will bring the community together,” said Atwell. “It’s about family, fitness and fun, and it’s going to bring such energy to the surrounding neighborhoods. Payne Park is a great space for many future events, and we want to remind people that it is, indeed, part of downtown Sarasota.”