02/28/2022
Dear Athletes,
After several months of working on an alternate solution, it's with a very heavy heart that we've had to make the difficult decision to postpone indefinitely The Eureka Springs Multisport Festival aka “The Eurekan”.
After 10 years of multisport competition in Eureka Springs, Holiday Island, Berryville, Green Forest and surrounding areas of Northwest Arkansas the event has come to an end. The main reasons are the exponentially rising costs of holding events, especially multi-day formats, combined with limited local and corporate funding in a small, populated area.
The ESMF started in 2011 as a concept to bring three different sports (triathlon, bike rides and running races) in one weekend to a beautiful and historic part of the Midwest. This event had the unique element of combining all three disciplines into a three-day stage contest along with competitors having the option to participate in individual events over the three days.
The first year exceeded expectations with over 250 unique athletes from 7 states competing in over 400 events. And before the pandemic, that number had grown to over 500 unique athletes from 13 states and 3 foreign countries in 2019. In addition, over 500 friends and family members attended to make it a true festival event for all.
“The Eurekan was our first event outside of the Fayetteville area and one where we enlisted athletes, local stakeholders and other industry experts to develop a truly unique concept and event experience. Eureka Springs and the surrounding communities had all the elements to offer something new and different in such a crowded regional event calendar.” said Race Director Bruce Dunn. “There is definitely a sense of loss not only for us, but more so for our athletes and our local partners. We have developed very close personal relationships with the community and athletes, as well as we always looked forward to seeing familiar faces and creating new friendships as well.”
“We sincerely thank our athletes for making this event one which will always hold a special place in our collective hearts. Especially those who competed in their very first triathlon, bike ride or run to the Eurekan and Half Eurekan competitors that toed the line for all three days…you were the reason we persevered to celebrate the 10 year anniversary despite a pandemic.” On behalf of All Sports Productions, the local organizing committee, and key stakeholders.
For any athlete who registered for the 2020 event which was postponed and did not participate in 2021 or an athlete who registered for the 2021 race and was due a rollover, please email [email protected] to make alternative arrangements.
Regards,
All Sports Productions
