Successfully Hosting Multi-Sport Adventure Races in Public Parks
Track: Recreation Programming

Wednesday, May 4, 2016 | 10:30 to 11:45 am

Speakers:
Todd Elsworth, Executive Director, Recreation Northwest
Lance Romo, Recreation Coordinator, City of Bellingham Parks and Recreation

Session Description:

Multi-sport events are hotter than ever and the best venues for these events are often public parks, but there are challenges with choosing these venues. Regular users of the parks often oppose these events, not to mention the concern regarding wear and tear on the park facilities. This session will highlight the successful 14-year business relationship between Bellingham Parks and Recreation and Recreation Northwest, a multi-sport event organizer. Case studies will be shared including the Bellingham Traverse, which features running, mountain biking, road biking and kayaking and extensively uses City of Bellingham park facilities. The presenters are excited to share the tools they have developed over the years to ensure events run smoothly and have a positive impact on the community!

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will learn how to work with race directors on proposals for active use of parks.
• Participants will learn the importance of developing and implementing a code of conduct for multi-sport events.
• Participants will understand best management practices for multi-sport events taking place in public spaces.