River Sports Outfitters celebrated a big anniversary this month.
Ed McAlister’s team had a surprise party to mark the company’s 40th anniversary. The outdoor outfitter was founded in 1982.
And there it was: Boom, boom, boom. Nov. 17, 2023, was declared River Sports Outfitters Day in the city of Knoxville by Mayor Indya Kincannon, in Knox County by Mayor Glenn Jacobs and by the Tennessee Senate as signed by Lt. Gov. Randy McNally and District 6 Sen. Becky Duncan Massey.
Brooke Smiley, general manager, and Ed McAlister, owner, at River Sports Outfitters.
The proclamations praised RSO as an independent specialty retailer providing local and online customers with quality road/trail hiking, road/trail running, camping/backpacking, rock climbing and paddle sports gear. “River Sports has carved a significant niche as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts in Knoxville and this region.”
McAlister announced his Black Friday (Nov. 24, 2023) sale, which he is extending online until midnight Monday, Nov. 27. A 25% off sale online with the discount automatically applied at checkout. A few restrictions apply. Info here.
There are specials throughout the store at 2918 Sutherland Ave. through Monday as well, and 70% off at the Warehouse Store location, 2706 Sutherland Ave. Check the website for hours of operation.
River Sports Outfitters operates four outposts seasonally: Meads Quarry Lake, The Cove at Concord Park, Fort Dickerson and Seven Islands State Birding Park. And McAlister has actively supported efforts to create Knox County Water Trail on Beaver Creek.