Sarasota County to Attract Thousands of Athletes and Visitors with Four Major Sports Events This February
Two returning events and two first-time competitions highlight February’s sports calendar, spanning BMX racing, beach competition, rowing and bridge.
Two returning events and two first-time competitions highlight February’s sports calendar, spanning BMX racing, beach competition, rowing and bridge.
From February 7-21, Sarasota County will host four major sports events across multiple county locations. Hosted in partnership with Visit Sarasota County, the official tourism marketing entity and primary provider of visitor information for Sarasota County, thousands of participants and spectators will visit the region.
The events are open to the public, and media are encouraged to attend. Interviews are available on-site or in advance with Visit Sarasota County leadership and event organizers.
2026 USA BMX Gold Cup Championship Series
When: February 7, 2026
Where: Sarasota BMX, Sarasota, FL
Details: The 2026 USA BMX Gold Cup Championship Series launches February 7, 2026, at Sarasota BMX as the first stop of the Southeast Division. The regional championship brings riders together to compete for the prestigious Gold Cup 1-2-3 plates, uniting top talent in a high-stakes season-long pursuit of speed, skill, and championship glory.
When: February 7-8, 2026
Where: Siesta Beach, Siesta Key, FL
Details: The Good Times In Florida (GTIF) Festival takes place in early February on the iconic sands of Siesta Beach. The two-day event features a beach ultimate tournament, 5K fun run, kids run, and freestyle disc showcase. Led by veteran directors Grant & Matthew, GTIF is expected to draw 800+ participants and spectators and is positioned for national growth.
When: February 14-15, 2026
Where: Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota, FL
Details: The American Youth Cup returns to Nathan Benderson Park February 14-15, welcoming high school and youth rowing programs from across the country. Hosted by Sarasota Crew, the regatta serves as a qualifying event for the 2026 USRowing Youth National Championships and is expected to draw over 2,500 athletes and spectators.
Sarasota Regional Bridge Tournament
When: February 16-21, 2026
Where: Robarts Arena, Sarasota, FL
Details: The Sarasota Regional Bridge Tournament takes place February 16-21, 2026, at Robarts Arena, welcoming players from across Florida and the U.S. Hosted by Florida Suncoast Unit 102 with the American Contract Bridge League, the six-day event marks the destination’s first bridge card tournament and is expected to draw 700+ participants.
# # #
About Visit Sarasota County
Visit Sarasota County is the official tourism marketing entity and primary provider of visitor information for Sarasota County where tourism is the top industry. Through programs and partnerships, Visit Sarasota County makes Sarasota County a better place by promoting our community on the world stage. These efforts bring together over 500 partners to keep visitors coming, local businesses open and residents employed all year. Visit Sarasota County is accredited by the Destination Marketing Accreditation Program, a program of the Destination Management Association International (DMAI). To learn more, visit www.visitsarasota.com.
Media Contact
Visit Sarasota County
Elizabeth Knight
941-468-1554