Dec. 2, 2013
For immediate release
Race delivers $7.4 million in economic impact to region
The California International Marathon delivers a timely boost to the local economy, with the 31st annual race expected to generate 2,540 hotel room nights and provide an economic impact of $7.4 million.
A field of 9,000 marathoners and 4,000 relay runners is expected for the 26.2-mile race, which begins Sunday at 7 a.m. near Folsom Dam and finishes at the state Capitol. An additional 2,000 entrants are expected for the 2.62-mile maraFUNrun.
The race is put on by the Sacramento Running Association.
The economic lift comes during a typically slow time for local hotels, making the CIM a welcome sight for local tourism officials.
“The California International Marathon illustrates the tradition of successful sporting events Sacramento plays host to,” said Steve Hammond, president and CEO of the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau.
“It brings visitors to Sacramento from across the world, has become one of the most respected races in the country, and represents significant economic impact to this region.
“We could not be more proud to have the CIM call Sacramento home.”
The race has doubled in size in the last six years, thanks in part to a marketing campaign at other marathons around the country and in Canada fueled by financial help from the Sacramento Convention & Visitors Bureau.
The CIM’s fast, slightly downhill course and typically cool weather conditions have helped the event gain a reputation as a great place to attain a Boston Marathon qualifying time or a personal best.
The Sacramento Running Association is a non-profit organization dedicated to finding ways to encourage people of all ages and abilities to run. The SRA is committed to developing new, quality running events that appeal to a broad variety of runners.