Sports Fest Kicks Off School Year

Cary had a chance to show off its physical side at the third annual fall Sports Fest.

The showcase hosted by the Cary Grove Chamber of Commerce is meant to bring out the community's passion for sports and fitness, said Suzanne Corr, executive director of the chamber.

"This is the end-of-the-summer kickoff to the new school year," Corr said. "This is the event that pulls together the youth sports clubs and sports vendors and provides the community with the opportunity to see the resources and activities available to them."

The event is popular and likely to continue well into the future, Corr added. It took place at the Cary Professional Center and included a free rock climbing wall for kids sponsored by the Wool Street Grill & Sports Bar, a free obstacle course challenge and other activities for participants of all ages.

Live demonstrations of Cary's sports teams and activities ran throughout the event.

The first demonstration was by poms and cheerleaders, followed by American Freestyle Martial Arts, Cary Gymnastics, AKF, Cary Physical, Brooks Martial Arts, Jazzercize, Focus Martial Arts and Running Depot.

Children were also able to participate in the obstacle course challenge to vy for a new bike. Walmart donated a scooter and a bicycle as the prizes for the challenge. 

Lori Anderson of Cary won the Sports Fest vendor raffle, receiving a prize of five skybox tickets to a Cubs game. 

The event also included food and live entertainment. The local band Poseidon played songs throughout the day.

"The community is very passionate about sports and fitness," Corr said.