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$200,000 is reason for celebration in Ohio © 2010 Jeffrey B. Jakucyk

To all you race promoters out there who are struggling to get community support or get permitting for a venue: forward this excerpt from the Fairfield, OH, chamber of commerce’s newsletter to your local powers that be. The Fairfield Chamber estimates the economic impact of this event at $200,000. Good events bring a positive economic benefit – simple as that.

From the Fairfield Advantage newsletter: The City of Fairfield Parks and Recreation Department displays in this report what positive impact special events have in our community. Cyclocross racing has been a part of Harbin Park events offerings since 1996. In its first year, 15 riders attended that first race. Fast forward to 2010, and over 500 registered riders made the trip to Harbin Park from all parts of the US. The economic impact was close to $200,000.

Here are some quick facts:

• The average distance traveled to race at Harbin Park was 250 miles. Riders from as far away as Seattle and southern California flew into greater Cincinnati to race.
• 25 states in all were represented. Canada, New Zealand and Denmark, as well.
• 70% traveled in from over 100 miles away to compete.
• Over 80% stayed 2 nights or more in Cincinnati.
• On October 10th, the Harbin Park event was the most heavily publicized cycling event in the U.S. by the national cycling press.
• Over 500 spectators came just to watch the racing.
• The Harbin Park race course has developed a reputation as one of the hardest courses in the United States, specifically the 300 yard uphill leading into a 40 yard uphill sand pit.

Read Cyclocross Magazine‘s coverage of the UCI3 Harbin Park race here.

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