Some events fill hotel rooms.
Others fill your heart.
The Special Olympics Kentucky State Softball Tournament returns to Owensboro September 11-13, bringing approximately 40 teams and hundreds of athletes, coaches and family members from across the Commonwealth. For the third straight year, Jack C. Fisher Park will host one of Kentucky’s premier championship events, and our community is ready to welcome every visitor.
Special Olympics Kentucky Area Director Kim Johnson summed it up perfectly when she said Owensboro’s hospitality has been “top-notch” and that bringing the tournament back has been an easy decision because “there really have not been any complaints.” That’s a reflection of our parks staff, volunteers, hotels, restaurants and the people who make visitors feel at home.
As Visit Owensboro President Mark Calitri said, “This championship is one of the biggest weekends of the year for our hotels, restaurants and local businesses. We’re stepping up our game by moving the Saturday night dance party to the Owensboro Sportscenter so these athletes get a venue that feels big-league. This community really steps up, and that’s the winning difference Owensboro brings.”
That’s what sports tourism is all about.
Outstanding facilities may attract a championship, but outstanding people bring it back.
We invite everyone to come out, fill the bleachers and cheer for these incredible athletes. You’ll witness determination, sportsmanship and a community that proudly shows why Owensboro has become one of Kentucky’s leading destinations for championship sporting events.
Read the original Owensboro Times story: https://www.owensborotimes.com/features/2026/07/special-olympics-kentucky-state-softball-tournament-returning-to-owensboro-in-september/
Explore more sports events and attractions in Owensboro:
https://visitowensboro.com/
Read more leadership articles by Mark Calitri: https://markcalitriofficial.blogspot.com/2026/07/mark-calitri-real-reason-special.html