RIVER BOWL CLASSIC
The Nation’s First and Only Black-Led, Black-Centered Regatta!
The River Bowl Classic (RBC) is more than a race - it's a movement. Founded and led by Black community leadership in Oklahoma City, RBC is the first and only Black-led, Black-centered rowing event in the nation.
Set on the waters of the Oklahoma River, this groundbreaking event redefines tradition and uses rowing - a sport where Black representation is historically less than 2% - as a powerful catalyst for community, culture, and change.
Mayor David Holt proclaimed August 2nd as River Bowl Classic Day in Oklahoma City, anchoring the event as an annual tradition held on the first Saturday in August.
The Start of River Bowl
In 2022, the River Bowl Classic was founded by Shawntay Alexander as a bold response to a simple question: What if we created a community reunion along the river?
Following the COVID-19 pandemic and a period of heightened national reflection on race, equity, and community, Alexander envisioned an event that would bring people together through culture, community, and sport. That vision became the River Bowl Classic - now the flagship event of OBAC Reunion Weekend.
Held annually at RIVERSPORT OKC, the event takes place on land once home to Walnut Grove, a historic Black community displaced by urban development. For many participants, gathering at the riverfront represents more than recreation - it is an opportunity to honor history, reclaim space, and celebrate legacy.
The inaugural race featured alumni from Oklahoma City’s historically Black high schools, including Douglass, Star Spencer, Millwood, John Marshall, and Northeast. While rowing is the sport, the mission has always been bigger than competition. River Bowl exists to build relationships, inspire pride, expand access, and create new traditions rooted in community.
Today, River Bowl stands as the nation’s only Black-led, Black-centered regatta and a powerful example of how sport, culture, and place can come together to create something truly transformative.
This is more than a regatta. This is history in motion.
Thank You To Our 2026 Presenting Sponsor
2025 River Bowl Classic's winning alumni teams: 1st Place - Northeast High School; 2nd Place - Southeast High School; 3rd Place - Douglass High School
Reclaiming the River: OBAC in Rolling Out Magazine
We're proud to be featured in Rolling Out Magazine’s recent article, “Reclaiming the River,” which highlights the transformative impact of our 2025 River Bowl Classic and Reunion Weekend.
This national spotlight amplifies our mission to reclaim space, honor legacy, and build a future rooted in unity and empowerment. It’s a powerful reminder that Black alumni networks aren’t just social: they’re strategic, influential, and essential to community growth. And we’re just getting started!
Read the Full Feature:
“Reclaiming the River” on Rolling Out
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All Participants
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
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.
Our Events
Register today for our Annual River Bowl Classic.
