The Erie Sports Commission held its 10th annual Sports Tourism Awards Dinner at the Erie Sheraton Bayfront Hotel tonight. More than 100 event rights holders, venue directors, elected officials, community leaders and their guests attended the event to honor and recognize the efforts of those who had an impact on Erie County sports tourism in 2024.
The Erie Sports Commission enjoyed a successful year in 2024 generating $22.5 million in estimated economic impact by hosting and supporting 83 events, covering 127 days.
Mayor Joe Schember presented the Locally Managed Event of the Year Award to Barber Beast on the Bay, which achieved record-breaking registration with over 1,300 participants from 23 states and Canada. Proceeds from the event support the Barber National Institute (BNI).
The PA State USBC Open Championships, the year’s longest-running tournament, received the Impact Award presented by VisitErie President and CEO John Oliver. Spanning 10 weeks from April to June, the event attracted over 3,800 participants and generated an estimated $2 million in economic impact.
Jim Waters, owner of the Erie Otters, was honored with the Ron Sertz Dedication to Erie Award, presented by Chair of the VisitErie Board of Directors, Gus Pine, and accepted by Otters Vice President and General Manager, Dave Brown. After purchasing the team in 2015, Waters led the Otters to their second OHL championship in 2017 and left a profound, lasting legacy as a devoted supporter of Erie’s hockey community, before passing away unexpectedly in December.
The Midwest GAA (Adult Irish Sports) was selected as the New Event of the Year, presented by Vice Chair of the VisitErie Board of Directors, Terry Cascioli. Over 350 participants from around the region traveled to Erie to compete in Camogie, Gaelic Football, Ladies Gaelic Football and Hurling.
Kregg and Katie Heenan, were honored as Volunteers of the Year by Erie Sports Commission Events and Marketing Manager Sydney Dietz. The Heenan’s organized the Erie Cancer Wellness Center Duathlon, which supports individuals and families affected by cancer. The event sold out in 2024.
County Executive Brenton Davis presented Event Series of the Year Award to the World Ninja League Regional Qualifiers, hosted at Sinai Sports. The World Ninja League is a series of ninja competitions for athletes aged six and older, aimed at promoting the sport of Ninja Obstacle Course racing globally.
Ben Huggler, event services director of the Erie Sports Commission, presented the National Event of the Year Award to Major League Fishing. From August 25-30, nationally recognized anglers competed in the General Tire Team B&W Trailer Hitches Challenge Cup Series on Presque Isle Bay.
For more information about the Erie Sports Commission visit ErieSportsCommission.com.
