Connecticut may be one of the nation’s smallest states, but it delivers an outsized advantage for sporting events. Ideally positioned between New York City and Boston, the state offers easy access to more than 23.5 million people within a two-and-a-half-hour drive, making it an ideal draw for regional and national competitions. That prime location is complemented by quality venues, welcoming communities, and a diverse mix of hotels, restaurants, and attractions. “As a small state with different regions, Connecticut can offer more customized, affordable, personal service to organizers and athletes than larger metropolitan cities can,” says Robert Murdock, president of the Connecticut Convention & Sports Bureau. “We really roll out the red carpet to welcome and service them.”