August 15, 2024
American Royal Honors its Mission Through Sporting KC Match
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
American Royal Honors its Mission Through Sporting KC Match
The battle of Midwest soccer and barbecue celebrated the American Royal’s 125th Anniversary
KANSAS CITY, Mo (Aug. 15, 2024) – As a part of its 125th anniversary celebration, the American Royal partnered with Sporting KC for an American Royal Night Out match against St. Louis CITY SC on July 20. American Royal contestants and supporters represented the organization’s four core events in a pre match ceremony on the pitch.
“A day spent showing off the best of Kansas City with the collaboration of two organizations that represent the World Series of Barbecue and the soccer capital of America was exhilarating,” said Lindsey Patterson Smith, American Royal board of directors vice chairman and Sporting Club partner. “Our city has much to be proud of, and for me, Sporting Kansas City and the American Royal top that list. Both boast rich histories and traditions and excel through a culture of excellence that helps make our city great.”
During the match, Children’s Mercy Park was filled with the smell of barbecue smoke to recognize the ongoing barbecue rivalry between Kansas City and St. Louis Barbecue, and the American Royal’s largest fundraiser and event, the World Series of Barbecue®. Over 1,500 free samples of Kansas City-style burnt ends and award-winning barbecue sauce from Burnt Finger BBQ were served to attendees.
“The Sporting KC match was a fun and exciting way to honor the American Royal’s historic legacy in Kansas City,” said Jackie McClaskey, president and CEO of the American Royal Association. “Each year, we host over half a million attendees from around the world to engage in American Royal food and agriculture education and events and provide numerous scholarships to youth in the industry.”
The American Royal and Sporting KC will soon be neighbors in Wyandotte County, Kansas, as Children’s Mercy Park is just a mile away from American Royal’s new home. Learn more about the American Royal’s 125th anniversary celebration at americanroyal.com/about/125th-anniversary/.
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About the American Royal Association
A Kansas City tradition since 1899, the American Royal is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization whose mission is to be the nation’s leader for food and agriculture education, events, and engagement. The American Royal provides opportunities for youth and adults from around the world to engage in high quality events and experiences, including nationally competitive livestock shows, the world’s largest barbecue competition, regional and national equine shows, youth and professional rodeos, and elementary and secondary education outreach. Support from partners, members, and volunteers help the American Royal achieve its vision of a world where food and agriculture are celebrated, and all generations are committed to its future.
Contact:
Julie Warner
AdFarm
2101 Broadway Blvd
Kansas City, MO 64108
[email protected]