After successfully hosting 15 of approximately 90 events for 2013 from January through March, the GSOBSC is off to a great start this year in sports tourism numbers. From soccer and softball to cheerleading and fun runs, the GSOBSC welcomed a range of athletic events, boosting the local economy. In the first quarter, the sports commission brought in more than $3.5 million in total direct visitor spending (which is comprised of more than $1.5 million in room night spending and more than $2 million in additional spending) producing 10,589 room nights.
“We’re thrilled to report that we’re off to a solid start for the year, and we’re gearing up for a busy summer season,” said Beth Gendler, vice president of sales for the GSOBSC. “None of this would be possible without the help and hospitality of the Cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach and our sponsors as they continue to welcome athletes, families and fans with open arms.”
Among a large number of upcoming summer events, the sports commission’s schedule includes the following:
The public is invited to attend the American Volleyball Coaches Association’s Collegiate Sand Volleyball Championships from May 3 through 5 featuring the top six college teams in the country as well as the top doubles teams across all schools. This championship event will take place at the Gulf Shores Main Public Beach. CBS Sports Network, a long-standing sand volleyball television partner, is set to film and air portions of the event at a later date.
More than 2,000 athletes and their families are gearing up for Alabama High School Athletic Association’s Track Championships from May 3 through 4 at the Gulf Shores Sportsplex, where a $550,000 track renovation was recently completed including resurfacing and other improvements. Olympian Bryan Clay and Paralympian Jerome Singleton will offer their athletic expertise courtesy of BP, an official sponsor the Olympic Games.
The Color Run, a 5K run with no winners or official times where thousands of participants will be covered from head to toe in different colors, will paint The Wharf on May 25. Those wishing to participate can register at www.thecolorrun.com/gulf-shores.
The sports commission will welcome more than 1,000 baseball teams along with their families for the USSSA Global World Series in five parts throughout the summer from June 18 through July 21.
For a complete schedule of upcoming athletic events along Alabama’s Gulf Coast, visit www.gulfshoresorangebeachsports.com, or call 1-800-745-SAND.
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