WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) — Birdies will be flying in the Air Capital this July, but not the winged kind.
Visit Wichita announced on Thursday that the city has been selected to host the 2026 YONEX U.S. Junior National Championships.
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The event is expected to bring over 600 athletes to Wichita and generate about $1 million in economic impact.
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“Securing the 2026 YONEX U.S. Junior National Championships is a major milestone for Wichita and the state of Kansas,” Josh Howell, vice president of sports development at Visit Wichita, said in a new release. “Hosting this event for the first time underscores Wichita’s reputation as a trusted host for national-level sporting events.”
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(Courtesy: USA Badminton)
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(Courtesy: USA Badminton)
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(Courtesy: USA Badminton)
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(Courtesy: USA Badminton)
The competition will take place from July 8 to 14 at the Wichita Edge Sports Complex.
This month, Wichita hosted the USA Judo Youth Nationals, and the 2026 Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament semifinals and final will take place next week at Charles Koch Arena.
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“Wichita’s momentum as a sports destination continues to grow,” Howell said in a news release. “From basketball to judo to badminton and beyond, we’re demonstrating our ability to compete at the highest level. Each event enhances our economy, strengthens community pride, and reinforces Wichita’s position as a leading sports destination.”
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