FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2010 Road Runner Akron Marathon Adds an Estimated
$4 Million to Akron Economy
Road Runner Akron Marathon, The University of Akron
Release Economic Impact Study
AKRON, Ohio [Jan. 28, 2011] – The Road Runner Akron Marathon offers the
Akron community a health-focused, fun-filled event that draws thousands of
participants and spectators. Beyond outstanding athleticism and
entertainment, the event has a significant impact on the local economy,
according to The 2010 Akron Marathon: An Economic Impact Analysis, a study
released by the Road Runner Akron Marathon and The University of Akron's
Department of Economics.
"Athletic and entertainment events like the Road Runner Akron Marathon have
a positive impact because they attract high-spending, out-of-town visitors
which contribute to local tax revenues," said Dr. Shawn M. Rohlin, project
leader of the study and assistant professor at The University of Akron's
Department of Economics.
According to the study, the 2010 marathon attracted 11,051 race
participants*, of which 5,966 were local and 5,085 were non-local. In
total, participants generated an economic impact among the main sectors of
the economy (hotels, restaurants, bars, etc). Through the use of an
econometric model, The University of Akron researchers were able to
determine an estimated increase in economic activity totaling more than $4
million, almost $600,000 in increased local incomes, and the equivalent
creation of over 24 full-time jobs.
"The marathon has acclimated thousands to the sport of running," said Anne
Bitong, executive director of the Road Runner Akron Marathon. "Beyond
broadening awareness of the importance of health and fitness, the marathon
has also generated millions of dollars during a time of sparse economic
activity.
"With so many cities struggling," continued Bitong, "we're pleased to know
that the Road Runner Akron Marathon offers our city a means to bolster the
economy. Hosting this sort of event also increases the community's profile,
making Akron a future consideration for other large-scale, high-visibility
events."
Since its beginnings in 2003, the Road Runner Akron Marathon has seen
considerable growth in its number of registrants. The 2010 event totaled
11,051 participants, which is a significant increase from the 3,473
participants in its inaugural year.
The 2011 Road Runner Akron Marathon will be held Saturday, September 24,
2011. Early bird registration ends February 28, 2011. Additional
information on the Road Runner Akron Marathon, Half Marathon and Novo
Nordisk 5-Person Team Relay is available at www.akronmarathon.org or by
calling (330) 375-2786 (2RUN).
About Road Runner Akron Marathon
The Road Runner Akron Marathon is organized by the Akron Marathon
Charitable Corporation, a nonprofit group that is dedicated to promoting
health and fitness. Additional information on the Road Runner Akron
Marathon, Half Marathon and Novo Nordisk Team Relay is available at
www.akronmarathon.org or by calling (330) 375-2786 (2RUN).
*Numbers exclude Kids Fun Run, a free event associated with the Road Runner
Akron Marathon.
Participation associated with the Kids Fun Run elevates total community
involvement to the previously reported estimate of nearly 13,000.
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