Courtesy of Erie Sports Commission
Erie will welcome hundreds of athletes and visitors this weekend as two major sporting events bring competition, community engagement, and economic activity to the region. The Erie Cancer Wellness Center Duathlon has sold out for the fourth consecutive year, while the Erie Bay Cup youth hockey tournament is set to host its largest field of teams since its inception.
The Erie Cancer Wellness Center Duathlon will take place Sunday at Pleasant Ridge Park in Fairview, beginning at 9 a.m. The run-bike-run event has reached its maximum capacity with 170 registered participants, including both individual competitors and relay teams. Organizers say the event is designed to accommodate athletes of varying experience levels, making it accessible to newcomers while still challenging seasoned competitors.
Beyond competition, the event serves a larger purpose. Proceeds directly benefit the Erie Cancer Wellness Center, supporting programs and services for individuals and families affected by cancer.
“The Erie Cancer Wellness Center Duathlon has become a meaningful tradition that brings our community together in support of individuals and families affected by cancer,” said Kregg Heenan, an event volunteer with the duathlon. “We are grateful for every athlete, volunteer and sponsor that help make the event possible, and we look forward to hosting the event for another year while supporting the important work of the Erie Cancer Wellness Center.”
Meanwhile, youth hockey players from across the Midwest and Northeast will converge on Erie for the Erie Bay Cup, hosted by TCS Hockey. The tournament runs Friday through Sunday and will be held at Erie Sports Park, Erie Insurance Arena, and Flo Fabrizio Ice Center.
Courtesy of Erie Sports Commission
Approximately 720 players will participate, representing 48 teams from Illinois, Pennsylvania, New York, Ohio, Maryland, and Michigan. Tournament organizers say this year’s event marks a new participation record, surpassing previous attendance levels since the tournament launched in 2019.
Competition will include boys’ divisions ranging from 9U to 16U across A, AA, and B classifications. Each team is guaranteed at least four games during the three-day tournament.
Together, the two events highlight Erie’s growing reputation as a destination for amateur sports while generating community engagement and attracting visitors from across the region. From athletes racing in support of cancer wellness programs to young hockey players competing for tournament honors, the weekend promises to showcase both athletic achievement and community spirit throughout Erie County.
More information about Erie Sports Commission and all of their events can be found online here.