Fayette County

Heavy traffic expected in downtown Lexington this weekend for cheerleading competition

Rupp Arena at the Central Bank Center in downtown Lexington, Ky, Tuesday, August 1, 2023.
Rupp Arena at the Central Bank Center in downtown Lexington, Ky, Tuesday, August 1, 2023. Silas Walker/Lexington Herald-Le

The Lexington Police Department is advising motorists in downtown Lexington to drive cautiously this weekend as thousands of people are expected to be near the Central Bank Center for a national cheerleading competition.

The competition, Champion Force Cheerleading Nationals, will take place Saturday and Sunday at the Central Bank Center. Officials said they are expecting over 30,000 competitors and spectators from across the region.

“Central Bank Center is thrilled to host the Champion Force Cheerleading Nationals,” Joe Fields, director of sales with Central Bank Center, said in a press release. “Welcoming such a large number of visitors to our area greatly enhances our economic impact. Our close proximity to local businesses and downtown hotels allows guests to enjoy our state-of-the-art Convention Center as well as our vibrant city.”

Lexington police spokesperson Hannah Sloan said there are no plans to close roads for the event downtown motorists should expect heavier vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

“Use caution when traveling in the area and allow extra time to reach your destination,” Sloan said.

Champion Force Athletics offers high-quality sports programs, including cheerleading, at an affordable price. The group’s website says their mission is to, “empower youth with confidence, strength, and other life skills.”

To stay up-to-date on road closures and traffic, visit www.lexingtonky.gov/traffic-ticker.

Christopher Leach
Lexington Herald-Leader
Chris Leach is a breaking news reporter for the Lexington Herald-Leader. He joined the newspaper in September 2021 after previously working with the Anderson News and the Cats Pause. Chris graduated from UK in December 2018. Support my work with a digital subscription
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