Big bucks for Boston

BOSTON- The 110th Boston Marathon on Monday, April 17, 2006 and related activities throughout the weekend will bring approximately $95.4 million in direct and indirect economic impact to the Greater Boston region, according to Greater Boston Convention & Visitor Bureau President and CEO, Patrick Moscaritolo.

This year there will be more than 22,500 official runners including 3,720 runners from outside the United States. More than 500,000 spectators are anticipated to line the 26-mile route and Back Bay finish line area.

Included in the Marathon weekend spending impact are four Red Sox games at Fenway Park, Patriots' Day activities in Boston and around the region, the John Hancock Sports & Fitness Expo at the World Trade Center, and the start of the spring tourism season in Boston.

The $95.4 million in spending impact will be generated from the following categories:
Total spending for runners and their guests: $48.4 million
Total spending for spectators: $17 million
Four Red Sox games: $10 million
Charity Fundraising: $8 million
Spring season tourists: $7 million
John Hancock Sports & Fitness Expo: $5 million

Source: Greater Boston Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Courtesy of BAA.