Economic impact of golf tourney may reach $20M

STATELINE - Though the stars come and go, officials are estimating that $10 million to $20 million stayed in the area after the American Century Championship.

"The combination of a major attraction with world renowned sports celebrities, network television, national media exposure plus visitor and business appeal in this special venue has made the American Century Championship the perfect event for our destination," said Carol Chaplin, executive director of the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority, in a statement. "We're able to put South Shore Lake Tahoe on the map in a memorable way to display its beauty and amenities. It's been working for a long time."

The figure, provided by the LTVA, represents total spending throughout the region: lodging, dining, activities, entertainment and gaming combined with the media exposure generated for the destination leading up to and during the week, according to the statement.

This year marks the largest attendance in the 21-year history of the event, with more than 40,000 spectators in attendance throughout the weekend.

More than $100,000 was donated to area non-profits this year, according to the statement.

The ACC raised around $700,000 for its official charity, Livestrong, including a $500,000 hole-in-one donation triggered by former NHL all-star Joe Sakic in the tournament's final round. Since the event's inception in 1990, it has raised more than $4 million for local and national charities and organizations.

The event garnered nationwide media exposure through a variety of outlets. NBC Sports and Versus broadcast the event, while numerous other television channels aired taped and live satellite interviews.

For Edgewood Golf Course, the event went well, said spokesman Bryan Davis.

"To me, it's amazing with the economic times we're in that the tournament continues to grow," he said. "Even with the huge crowds, there's no reason to believe it can't be bigger."