The DC Metro area received $19.6 million in spending over the Marine Corps Marathon weekend during October 2004 according to a recent report from the George Washington University International Institute of Tourism Studies. The study, which randomly interviewed runners and spectators- both local and visitors, found that more than 76,000 people came to the area as a part of the MCM generating a 64% increase in dollars spent from the same weekend in 2002.

Marathon visitors over the four-day period predominately spent on food, lodging, entertainment, local transportation and retail purchases. This generated more than $1.3 million in tax revenue, up 114% from 2002. Virginia was the dominant recipient of runner and spectator spending, bringing in nearly two-thirds of the money spent.

"I've seen the MCM and its impact grow in Virginia over the last 30 years," says Portofinos restaurant owner Sergio Micheli. "MCM weekend is one of the top three most profitable weekends of the year for my business."

The MCM and Charles E. Smith Commercial Realty partnered for the first time in 2004 to initiate the Crystal City Street Spectacular in an effort to stimulate the economic impact for new restaurants and shops along Crystal Drive. "Having Crystal City and Arlington as a central hub for parking, hotels, restaurants and the re-routed race for the 2004 MCM generated significant energy and economic benefits in Crystal City and throughout Arlington County," Mitchell Schear, President of Charles E. Smith explains.

Runners and their parties spent nearly $10 million in restaurants and on retail purchases over the weekend. On average, runners and parties stayed 2.4 nights at area hotels generating an additional $6 million in revenue. In addition to the economic impact, the Marine Corps Marathon helped more than 1,400 charity runners raise $4.9 million for both local and national causes. The program's seven-year total of more than $32 million includes contributions to the fundraising efforts of AIDS Marathon, Lymphoma Leukemia Society and St. Jude's.

The Marine Corps Marathon continues a combined tradition of dedication, sportsmanship and patriotism. Since its inception, over 300,000 civilian and military runners from all walks of life have participated, deservingly earning the event its nickname "The People's Marathon." The 30th Marine Corps Marathon will be held on October 30, 2005.

Visit marinemarathon.com for more information.

For media information, contact Beth Cline, Marine Corps Marathon Public Relations Coordinator at (703) 432-1165, or by E-mail.