10 Events to Watch for at the Haynes Apperson Sports Festival
The Annual Haynes Apperson Sports Festival is poised to bring the community together with a packed schedule of exciting sporting events. This annual celebration, deeply ingrained in Kokomo’s tradition, showcases a wide range of sporting activities designed for all ages and skill levels.
The Haynes Apperson Sports Festival, named in honor of automotive pioneers Elwood Haynes and brothers Edgar and Elmer Apperson, continues to be a significant event in Kokomo.
Dana Neer, sports festival coordinator, has been a dedicated volunteer since participating in the kids’ track meet 26 years ago, shared his thoughts on what keeps families returning to the sports festival.
2023 Co-ed Volleyball
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“Every year we do it, there are at least three generations of a family that have participated in the track meet,” Neer said. “The variety of sports, for every level, held at 10 beautiful locations with the amazing people in the community is impressive. The participants love their sport and the community."
The Haynes Apperson Sports Festival is more than just a series of competitions, Neer said. It is a celebration of Kokomo's community spirit.
“There are few festivals anywhere that have the variety of things we have, from a car show to fireworks to sports to music. It’s a fabulous thing we have here, it’s beloved,” Neer said. “To think that the Apperson brothers and Elwood Haynes would be so proud of this, the history connected to the present, it's special.”
The festival will feature a variety of sporting events, most of which will take place on Saturday, June 29.
This year’s sports festival events include:
Youth Basketball: Young athletes will showcase their skills in a 3-on-3 basketball tournament starting at 9 a.m. on Saturday.
Kayak/Canoe Trip: This scenic trip will start at Waterworks Park and end at Foster Park, beginning at 4 p.m. Saturday after the parade. Community members are encouraged to cheer and clap as participants pass under bridges draped with flags. (Must provide own Kayak/Canoe)
Kids’ Track Meet: Scheduled for 9. a.m. Saturday at Jackson Morrow Park, this event is open to children aged 2-10, offering them a chance to experience the excitement of competition.
Tennis Tournament: The singles tournament will take place from June 25-27, with the doubles tournament running from June 28-30 at Kokomo High School, attracting tennis enthusiasts from across the area.
Golf Tournament: Taking place on Saturday at Chippendale Golf Course, golfers can set up their tee times by calling the course directly.
Cornhole Tournament: This social and competitive event will be held at 2 p.m. Sunday at Grace Fellowship Church, providing fun for all skill levels.
5K Walk and Run: Hosted by the YMCA, this event will start at 9 a.m. on Saturday, encouraging participants of all ages to join in for fitness and fun.
4-on-4 Co-ed Beach Volleyball: Teams will check in at 8:30 a.m. Saturday at Jackson Morrow Park, with the competition starting shortly after.
Disc Golf: Scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday at Highland Park, this event will cater to disc golf enthusiasts looking for a fun challenge.
Youth Soccer: The soccer tournament will take place at 9 a.m. Saturday, just north of Kokomo High School, giving young soccer players a chance to compete and have fun. (For middle and high school students.)
Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just looking for some family-friendly fun, the Haynes Apperson Sports Festival has something for everyone.
For more information on event schedules, registration details, and volunteer opportunities, visit the official Haynes Apperson Festival website.
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of Kokomo's premier sports celebration!