RIVERSPORT Rapids Opens With Olympic Trials

It’s a big weekend in the Boathouse District with the grand opening of RIVERSPORT Rapids and its hosting of the Team USA Olympic Trials.

Spectators came to Oklahoma City from across the country just for this weekend.

“We’re not going to get to Rio, so this is the next best thing!” Tammy Syniec of Granbury, Texas, said.

“This is a game changer for Oklahoma City,” Oklahoma City Boathouse Foundation Executive Director Mike Knopp said.  

Many were excited today for the whitewater slalom trials, including 15-year-old Seu Jacobi who considers Oklahoma City a piece of home. She is competing this weekend in the trials.

“I have been waiting for this white water course ever since we came here five years ago and this dream has come true,” said Jacobi.

She’s a local favorite surrounded by family, friends and fans. Her goal this weekend is to make Oklahomans proud.

“I love the course. It’s so fun and exciting,” Jacobi said.

She is following in the footsteps of her parents. Her dad is gold medal Olympian Joe Jacobi and watched as his daughter competed.

He is proud to see his daughter representing them on the water in Oklahoma City.

Knopp is encouraging people to come and check out the new facility.

Beyond the Olympic trials, there are several different activities in the Boathouse District this weekend.

Families can raft together, see the Road to Rio interactive exhibits, listen to a free concert and see a large fireworks show.