Extravagant European vacations may be on hold during this period of financial belt- tightening. But recreation industry insiders say even the most cash-strapped outdoor enthusiasts rarely turn away from their hobbies.
So attendance is expected to be strong for the 52nd Annual Colorado RV, Sports, Boat & Travel Show, which gets underway today at the National Western Complex and runs through Sunday.
According to show manager Dianne Seymour, last year’s event drew about 30,000 people. This year, with roughly 175 exhibitors and a busy demonstration schedule that includes such topics as fly-fishing for women, eco-friendly road-tripping and camp cooking made easy, Seymour, who has been plugged into this event for more than two decades, says she expects just as many attendees this year.
Q: What brings out the crowds for an event like this, even during a sour economy?
A: This is a family show. It’s not hard-core hunting or fishing. There’s a lot of family events (and) stuff for the kids like the trout pond, where the kids can fish and take that fish home or throw it back. We have a kids fishing clinic. We have “Ms. Archery,” Keli Van Cleave, (demonstrating) archery and fly-fishing for women and children. Her bows are pink. Her guns are pink. Her nails are pink. And we have Frank Addington, Jr., whom they call the “Aspirin Buster,” because he can shoot a hole through a baby aspirin with his bow and arrow.
Q: What indicators do you have that outdoor enthusiasts will continue to spend on vehicles and gear?
A: We know from other shows that people who have money to spend are there. What we have are less of the looky-loos. But boat shows and RV shows continue to do well. We’re still getting the same people who are really interested in this industry. If they’re already outdoor adventurers, they want to continue to do that.Q: What’s new this year?
A: Brian Brawdy and his Green RV. The green thing is such a big deal now. We really thought now was the time to really hit that (subject). He’s good at what he does, and I think he will be a good draw.
Elana Ashanti Jefferson: 303-954-1957 or ejefferson@denverpost.com
