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RIVER BOWL CLASSIC

Hosted by Oklahoma City Black Alumni Coalition

The River Bowl Classic (RBC) is an annual, reunion-style event curated and hosted by the OKC Black Alumni Coalition. It serves as a platform to involve and unite black high school alumni, students, and community members in thrilling watersport competitions including rowing, dragon boating, and kayaking.

 

Participants in rowing dedicate themselves to training early in the spring, culminating in an exhilarating showcase of competitive school rivalries on the water for their families and friends. This distinctive program, found nowhere else in the nation, stands as a blueprint for promoting diversity in rowing through community engagement.

 

The 3rd annual RBC is set to take place on Saturday, August 3, 2024, at RIVERSPORT. Save the date!

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Our History

In 2022, as OBAC geared up for a public launch, it confronted the enduring impacts of the 2020 Black Lives Matter movement and the Covid-19 pandemic, which weighed heavily on the black community. Alexander opted to kick off OBAC with a morale-boosting alumni reunion. Given the uncertainties surrounding the pandemic, outdoor venues were considered, leading to the realization that a valuable asset within the largest OKC black community remained largely untapped - RIVERSPORT.

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RIVERSPORT is an outdoor adventure park and Olympic training facility in the northeast quadrant of Oklahoma City. Selecting RIVERSPORT as the sight of the OBAC reunion was a big ambition. Not only is there a historical trauma and stigma surrounding water among the black community, but for some descendants of Walnut Grove, the black neighborhood that previously existed on the north side of the river, RIVERSPORT may not evoke positive associations. In March of 2022, Alexander held discussions with RIVERSPORT leadership to outline her vision of establishing a River Bowl for an annual OBAC reunion. This collaboration led to OBAC partnering with RIVERSPORT for the inaugural and second annual River Bowl Classic, held in August of 2022 and 2023.

Congratulations to the 2023 Winners!

Congratulations to the triumphant teams who conquered the waters in the 2023 River Bowl Classic competition! We extend our heartfelt applause to the winning crews whose strength, skill, and teamwork propelled them to victory. This event was a celebration of determination, unity, and the spirit of friendly competition, and each victorious paddle stroke reflects your dedication and passion. Well done!

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All Participants

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2023 Honorees

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our esteemed honorees for their outstanding contributions to our community. Your dedication, passion, and tireless efforts have made a significant impact, enriching the lives of many.

Relationship:
Brittant Hunter

Excellence:
Northeast Alumni Association

Advocacy:
Councilwoman Nikki Nice

Placemaking:
Greg Jones

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2023 Sponsors

On behalf of OBAC, we wanted to extend our deepest gratitude for your generous sponsorship. Your support plays a vital role in helping us make a meaningful impact and bring our initiatives to life.

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Our Events

Register today for our Annual River Bowl Classic.

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Volunteer Opportunity: Join Our 2024 Rowing Teams!

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To express your interest and sign up to be part of our rowing team, please fill out the attached form. Your participation will make a significant difference in our team's success, and we can't wait to welcome you on board!

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