In case you missed it, Compete Sports Diversity joined its members in Vegas for its annual Sin City Classic Diversity Conference and Petey Awards over MLK Weekend. In doing so, Compete brought forth change-makers within the sports community to share their testimony on the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in sports.
Travis Shumake, the first openly gay drag race car driver, dove into the importance of visibility in sports that struggle with welcoming particular demographics. Joshua Magallanes, a Women’s Sports Council Advisory Board Member, led a panel discussion about women in sports, where the panelists discussed ways in which women can be supported in sports as we strive for equity in pay, recognition, and opportunity.
Following the Conference was the Petey Awards, where numerous athletes and sports representatives were acknowledged for their dedication to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in their respective sports.
Award Winners of the 2023 Petey Awards
- Sporting Event Awards-Regional or Local (Saguaro Cup): Cactus Cities Softball League
- Sporting Event of the Year Award-Professional: (United States Tennis Association for Billie Jean King Cup and Diversity Brunch)
- Sin City Classic Volunteer Award: Dorian Dixon
- The Spirit of Sport Award: Las Vegas Tennis Classic
- The Pillar Award: Felicia Paschal-Gilmore
- The Beacon Award: Chris Daven
- Community Hero Award: Tanya Jackson
- Welcoming City Award: St. Petersberg/ Clearwater, FL
- Molly Lenore Inspiring Athlete Award: Beau Bradley
- Corporate Change Champion Award: Cintas
- Outstanding College or University: University of Las Vegas Nevada
- Sports Organization of the Year Award: International Gay Bowling Association
- Professional Sports Organization of the Year Award: Las Vegas Aces
- Ken Scearce Leadership Award: Tommy Otterbine
- Professional Athlete of the Year: Travis Shumake, NHRA Driver
- Athlete of the Year: Ernie Jaramillo
Congratulations to all award winners and thank you for making a positive impact on numerous lives through your sport. It is our goal that your hard work and dedication never go unnoticed.
Compete Sports Diversity also wants to sincerely thank all individuals who came to support the 2023 Sin City Classic Diversity Conference and/or the Petey Awards. Without the help of our members and partners, these events would not be possible.
To learn more about the Sin City Classic Diversity Conference and the Petey Awards, visit www.competenetwork.com for updates and all info on what’s next for Compete Sports Diversity, follow us on social media (Facebook) (Instagram)
