In a unique announcement on Friday, organizers for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles revealed that two sports, canoe slalom and softball, will be taking place in Oklahoma City instead of Southern California. The reasoning behind this decision was the lack of suitable venues for these sports in Southern California. With no facility for canoe slalom and a limited capacity stadium for softball, the decision to utilize existing locations in Oklahoma City makes sense. This decision also aligns with the International Olympic Committee’s focus on sustainability.
By hosting these events in Oklahoma City instead of constructing new facilities on the West coast, the organizers believe they can achieve cost savings and revenue gains to support a balanced budget for LA28. Both competition locations in Oklahoma City are known for their high-quality standards, ensuring a great experience for both athletes and spectators. The Devon Park in Oklahoma City, with a capacity of 13,000, is the home of the Women’s College World Series and is located within the USA Softball Hall of Fame complex. Meanwhile, canoers will be competing at Riversport OKC on the Oklahoma River.
This decision may seem unusual but it is not unprecedented in the world of Olympic sports. For example, surfing during the upcoming Paris Olympics will be taking place in Tahiti nearly 10,000 miles away from the host city. This shows that Olympic organizers are willing to think outside the box to ensure success and provide an exceptional experience for all participants.
