This University of Okalahoma graduate is the only American gymnast to win gold medals at every level of competition.
What are Oklahoma’s strengths as a destination for groups looking to add sports to the agenda?
I love the fact that many first-time visitors traveling to Oklahoma and Oklahoma City (OKC) especially for an event have little or no idea what to expect—only to then comment that, “They had no idea that OKC had so much to offer.” Oklahoma has always been known to have kind and generous people, but I am also proud to say that downtown OKC is becoming a wonderful destination. Along with terrific sports facilities, we have great hotels, restaurants, clubs, the Riverwalk and entertainment all within walking distance of each other.
What sporting experiences and activities would you recommend for Oklahoma groups?
This city has literally become a major-league city because of the OKC Thunder, so don’t miss them if you have the chance! We also have OKC Barons hockey and OKC Redhawks baseball, and if you venture to Norman to see University of Oklahoma sports or Stillwater to see Oklahoma State University teams in action, you can enjoy some of the finest collegiate sports programs in the nation. Also, remember to visit the Boathouse District along the Oklahoma River to witness what has become the world’s finest Olympic rowing and kayaking facility. Come in the spring of 2016 and try white-water kayaking at the newest attraction, the Oklahoma Rapids.
Please share some of the ways in which you work with the group market.
Nadia [Comaneci] and I travel all over the world, and people are often surprised when we tell them we live in Oklahoma. So, we use that as a chance to invite them to come enjoy what our OKC community has to offer. We have been hosting gymnastics events at the Cox Convention Center for several years, where we also host the Bart & Nadia Sports Experience (www.bartandnadiasportsexperience.com). Dedicated to encouraging Oklahoma families to get engaged in sports, have fun and learn about the importance of health and wellness, we are expecting some 2,500 participating athletes at the 2015 edition next month, and 10,000-plus Oklahomans attending the free Family Fitness and Fun portion of the event.