Sooner Legends is the brain child of a brother and sister team, Doug Kennon and Valerie Kennon. Doug opened Bob's BBQ in what is now Sooner Legends in 1999. Little did they know that in less than seven years the Kennon's would now be running a hotel, bar, restaurant and catering service.

 

Doug Kennon has been a life long collector of University of Oklahoma athletic memorabilia. He was an athletic trainer at the University of Oklahoma during his college years and was able to be a part of the action during some of OU's best days. His jerseys and 1985 National Championship ring now rest in the lobby of the hotel.

 

Valerie Kennon has always been on the go. Valerie ran successful sales forces all over the country and as a result spent many years away from home. Coming home for what she thought was a short visit turned into becoming partners with her brother in the restaurant. With Valerie's help they expanded the business and in early 2003 they got the chance to take over the bar that was next door. 

 

Valerie and Doug remodeled the bar and opened The Red Zone in 2003.

 

As if two businesses weren't enough, in 2004, they were informed by their landlord that the hotel adjoining Bob's BBQ and The Red Zone, was in foreclosure and they had 30 days to vacate.

 

Valerie and Doug are not the type to shy away from a challenge. In 2005, Doug and Valerie, with help from their family, friends, and investors, they bought what is now Sooner Legends. That come to find out, that was the easy part.

 

First came the concept. On the way to the 2003 National Championship where OU played LSU in New Orleans, the idea was first kicked around to have an entire property dedicated to the Sooner Sports Legends, of past and present. Each room would be named after a particular athlete or sport or championship.

 

Doug had the vision so now it was up to Valerie to make it happen. Valerie put the plan into action and started making the concept a reality. Since she, herself had spent so much time on the road working all over the country she knew what she wanted in a hotel. She designed everything from the crimson carpet to the beds in each hotel room. The hotel was built from the customers perspective.

 

After six months of massive renovations and remodeling, in March of 2006, Sooner Legends Hotel - Bar - Restaurant opened the doors.

 

Since opening, we have been Voted #1 Hotel in Norman, #1 Caterer, #2 Best Overall Restaurant, awarded for Outstanding Hospitality and been nominated in the Top 5 for all Oklahoma City Metro Hotels.

 

Now that you know our story, please come join us so we can learn yours.