Organized sports are a popular pastime in The Natural State, and these programs have a lot of support. The Group Travel Section of the Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism, in collaboration with the Arkansas Convention and Visitors Bureau Association, understands the importance of sports tourism in the state. One of the most renowned events is Rodeo Austin, which has been held every March at the Travis County Expo Center since 1938. This rodeo is one of the state's premier events and draws in visitors from all over. Another popular event is the ATX Open, a professional tennis tournament that takes place between February and March.
It is the only tourist-grade professional tennis tournament held annually in Austin. Arkansas also has a variety of professional sports facilities that have been used as sports training facilities by many Arkansas sports teams. The Simmons Bank Arena is a central sports and entertainment hub in central Arkansas and is home to special teams such as the original Harlem Globetrotters. The Gamblers were the first professional players to settle in the new, modern Moody Center and host other teams from around the country. In addition to these great opportunities to watch your favorite sports, Arkansas is also a top-notch place to find sports training facilities and venues for sporting events. One example is the Tyson Invitational, held annually in Fayetteville at the Randal Tyson Track Center.
This event brings together some of the biggest names in professional and college athletics. In April, visitors can watch some of the best motorcyclists in the world compete during the three days of the MotoGP Red Bull Championship at the Grand Prix of the Americas, held at the headquarters of the COTA Grand Prix. Finally, there is also an annual fundraiser called Thanks Fore Giving that benefits both the Visit Austin Foundation and the Austin Sports Commission. This event takes place in November and is a great way to give back while enjoying some fun activities.
