Ben Snyder, the Executive Director of the Grand Junction Sports Commission for the past six years, announced plans to depart the organization, with his final day scheduled for Nov. 6. The announcement came in a press release issued on Tuesday, Oct. 20, stating Snyder will move to the East Coast to be closer to his family.
Snyder is credited by the Sports Commission with significantly growing the community’s reputation as a sports tourism destination. During his tenure, national events like the World Wake Association National Championships and the USA Cycling Collegiate National Championships were brought to the Western Slope. The organization also played a major role in organizing beloved local events, including a marathon over Colorado National Monument, the Rides and Vibes Mountain Bike and Music Festival, and the Grand Junction Air Show.
In April, the Grand Junction Sports Commission received the Sports Commission of the Year award for populations under 500,000 from the Sports Events and Tourism Association, which is the top national honor for the industry. The press release announcing Snyder’s departure credited him with doubling the group’s annual revenue. The Sports Commission also reported that sports tourism generated $62 million in economic impact for Mesa County in 2025.
In the press release, Snyder stated, “It has been a true privilege to lead the Grand Junction Sports Commission and I’m really proud of what we’ve accomplished.” He described the decision as a very hard one, prompted by a great opportunity to be closer to his family on the East Coast. Snyder also expressed gratitude to the Board of Directors, staff, and community partners for their support.
Curtis Englehart, chair of the Sports Commission Board of Directors, praised Snyder in a statement, noting he had done an “outstanding job leading the Grand Junction Sports Commission and elevating our community as a premier destination for sports tourism.” Englehart added that Snyder's leadership, vision, and commitment to building strong partnerships helped create lasting economic impact and showcased Grand Junction and Mesa County. Englehart concluded by thanking Snyder for his contributions and wishing him and his family well, stating that Grand Junction has significant momentum and an exciting opportunity to build on its success and grow the sports tourism industry.
According to the press release, a national search will be conducted to find Snyder’s replacement. In the interim, Samantha Smith has been promoted to director of operations and will manage the day-to-day operations of the organization.
