West Michigan Sports Commission Looks Ahead to Full Weekend

The West Michigan Sports Commission (WMSC) is gearing up for a weekend of sports events February 27 - March 1, 2009. During that time, the West Michigan area will see three major sporting events taking place: US Airborne "Born to Fly" Gymnastics Invitational at GRCC's Ford Fieldhouse, Grand Rapids Rail Jam hosted by The B.O.B. in downtown Grand Rapids and the National Collegiate Wrestling Association (NCWA) North Central Conference Championships at GVSU's Fieldhouse in Allendale. The three events will combine to attract an estimated 850 athletes and as many as 3,500 spectators. All together, it is estimated that these events will contribute over $500,000 in visitor spending for the weekend.

The U.S. Airborne "Born to Fly" Gymnastics Invitational will be held February 28 to March 1 in the Grand Rapids Community College's Ford Fieldhouse (143 Bostwick Ave., Grand Rapids, MI 49503). Meet organizers expect upwards of 360 gymnasts from 14 teams across Michigan and Ohio as well as 1,500 spectators to attend throughout the weekend. Admission to the event will range from $5 for seniors and children to an adult weekend pass for $15.

New this year is the Grand Rapids Rail Jam hosted by The B.O.B. (20 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503) and presented by Fox 17 and WGRD 97.9. The event will see snowboarders and skiers from across Michigan riding rails as The B.O.B.'s surrounding parking lots are transformed into a winter sports fanatic's dream. A 30 foot high ramp will be constructed and snow piles prodded into perfect position for this three day family-friendly event. Locals and visitors will enjoy music, food, riders, and raffle prizes.

Grand Valley State University (GVSU) will host the 2009 National Collegiate Wrestling Association (NCWA) North Central Conference Championships on Saturday February 28, 2009 at the GVSU Fieldhouse (1 Campus Drive) in Allendale, MI. The event is expected to draw competitors into the Grand Rapids area from Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin and Michigan. The top wrestlers from this event will move on to compete in the NCWA National Championship that is scheduled for March 12-14, 2009 at the Convocation Center Arena - University of Hampton located in Hampton, Virginia.