The Owensboro Dust Bowl is back for its 52nd year, promising another summer of community, competition, and celebration at Kendall-Perkins Park from July 18–27. President Rippo Hinton said this year’s event includes several new additions, including a men’s dunk contest and a 3-point contest for high school athletes.
The Men’s Open Division will feature a $2,000 cash prize for the champion, with a $250 entry fee and a 15-team maximum. Team registration for all divisions is open now at owensborodustbowl.org.
“We’ve added some new programs this year, and the excitement is building,” Hinton said. “We’ve got vendors, contests, and of course, basketball. The Dust Bowl is all about the community coming together — that’s what makes it so special.”
The tournament includes a full range of divisions from third grade to adult, with some 3-on-3 formats for the youngsters. Early bird team registration is $150 through June 18, and $200 afterward. Space is limited to 30 teams total.
Specialty games will include the popular Fire Department vs. Police Department matchup, Baptown vs. Mechanicsville, and a return of the Special Olympics showcase.
The Dust Bowl has grown significantly since its humble beginnings at the Chautauqua Youth Center, where Hinton said the idea was conceived. Now in his second year as president, he sees the event as both a tribute to the past and a step toward the future.
“We’re trying to maintain the legacy while bringing in fresh ideas,” he said. “We’ve joined the Chamber of Commerce, and the community support has been beautiful. Everyone from sponsors to volunteers to coaches from all our local high schools helps make this happen.”
Hinton noted that they’re also working to increase participation in the girls’ divisions.
“It’s always been harder to get girls’ teams — but we’ve got people focused on changing that this year,” he said.
The Dust Bowl’s impact extends beyond basketball. Hinton said it unites people of all backgrounds and gives new life to the park and the surrounding community.
For more information or to register a team, become a vendor, or sponsor the event, visit owensborodustbowl.org.
