NATIONAL HORSESHOE PITCHERS ASSOCIATION RETURNS TO SPRINGFIELD FOR THE 2028 WORLD HORSESHOE PITCHING TOURNAMENT
November 13, 2025 – Springfield, IL – The National Horseshoe Pitchers Association (NHPA) Executive Team has announced that the 2028 World Horseshoe Pitching Championships will be held in Springfield, Illinois.
The NHPA World Championships is the most prestigious event in the organization’s history, drawing more than 1,000 athletes from around the world—including Canada, Germany, Norway, and across the United States. The two-week event will take place July 17–29, 2028, at the newly constructed air-dome facility at SCHEELS Sports Park at Legacy Pointe.
“Springfield, in conjunction with SCHEELS Sports Park at Legacy Pointe, is excited to once again host the NHPA World Championships,” said Terry Truman, Sales Manager, Visit Springfield. “This event is expected to generate over 1,400 hotel room nights and bring an estimated $2.8 million in economic impact to the Springfield area.”
“Since Springfield last hosted the event in 2009, Visit Springfield has long sought to bring the Championships back to the Capital City,” added Scott Dahl, Director, Visit Springfield. “Grant funding from the Illinois Office of Tourism’s Incentive Grant Program was instrumental in securing this event.”
“The return of the World Championships is especially exciting as it coincides with the 100th anniversary of Springfield’s beloved Horseshoe sandwich (1928–2028),” noted Amy Beadle, Marketing Manager, Visit Springfield. “We’re thrilled about the fun and creative tie-ins that will celebrate both traditions.”
The NHPA evaluates potential host destinations based on amenities, family appeal, and player satisfaction. Springfield’s central location, facilities, and hospitality made it a standout choice.
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For more information or to schedule an interview, contact Terry Truman at 217-789-2360 ext. 5525, cell 217-553-4230, or email terry.truman@springfield.il.us.
About Visit Springfield-
The Springfield Convention & Visitors Bureau (Visit Springfield) is the official destination marketing organization for the City of Springfield, Illinois. The Bureau promotes the capital city as a premier convention, meeting, and leisure destination, supporting local businesses, partners, and the community through tourism.
About the National Horseshoe Pitchers Association-
The National Horseshoe Pitchers Association (NHPA) is a federation of 54 U.S. charters, each with affiliated clubs and individual members. The NHPA promotes and organizes the sport of horseshoe pitching, standardizes rules and equipment, and serves as a unifying organization for players worldwide. It sanctions the Annual World Tournament, state association tournaments, regional and open events, and league programs.