ROANOKE (WSLS 10) - More racers brought more money into the Roanoke Region's economy during the sixth annual Foot Levelers Blue Ridge Marathon, half marathon, and Anthem Star 10K.
"America's Toughest Road Marathon" hosted 1,677 runners who generated more than $556,000 in economic impact, according to a new study.
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Organizers say over the past six years, the event has contributed more than $2.6 million to the local economy.
A post-race survey determined the April 18 races created $340,693 in direct new sales activity, plus an additional $215,482 in indirect and induced spending for a total of $556,175 – up 6.7 percent over 2014. Activity surrounding the event will also support 6.2 jobs in the regional economy over the period of one year.
Officials say economic impact is larger this year as a result of increased number of registrations, as well as increases in average amount spent by travelers, and average length of stay for those coming into the Roanoke Region for the races.
The race drew runners from 37 states – in addition to the District of Columbia – and six countries: Australia, Canada, Czech Republic, Finland, Haiti, and the United Kingdom.
"The study shows that this race is steadily becoming a destination event, counting dollars brought to the region from outside the area. In addition, the race helps more people experience the Roanoke Region's outdoor amenities," said Pete Eshelman, director of outdoor branding for the Roanoke Regional Partnership in a written statement. "That awareness helps reaffirm our reputation as an outdoor destination leading to economic development."
More than 43 percent of all survey respondents reported staying in town for at least one night. Approximately 37 percent stayed between one and two nights. The average length of stay among overnight visitors was 1.9 nights.
About 46 percent of all respondents reported traveling with family or friends, with an average of 2 additional people in the travel party among overnight visitors. Day-trip visitors traveled with an average of 0.5 others per participant.
The race course started in downtown Roanoke and climbed to the top of Mill Mountain and Roanoke Mountain along sections of the Blue Ridge Parkway for a total elevation change of 7,430 feet, making it America's toughest road marathon.
The 2016 races are set for April 16.