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U.S. Women's Open scores with economy
Posted: 07.02.2011 at 6:25 PM
Updated: 07.03.2011 at 9:25 AM
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LPGA golfers practice for the Women's Open at the Broadmoor.  / FOX21: Sade Malloy
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COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. --

It's all for practice now, but in a few short days the Broadmoor greens will be hosting the best female golfers.

The U.S. Women's Open is a major attraction for Colorado Springs and the Broadmoor bringing in an estimated $20 million in revenue.

"Not many events come into town with this kind of impact.  I think the fact that we're a seven day event really helps," Doug Habgood, Executive Director for the 2011 U.S. Women's Open, said.

But that $20 million figure doesn't take into account all the money spectators will bring into the community by visiting popular attractions.

About 114,000 tickets have already been sold, and that number is expected to increase with walk-in ticket sales starting July 4.

Spectators will spend 3-4 hours watching the championship and most likely end their day at a local restaurant or sight-seeing, the same way the golfers playing in the event have been ending their days.

"I was hoping to go to Pikes Peak a few days ago, and I did that. It was really fun, and next thing is Garden of the Gods, maybe some zip lining," Sandra Gal, the 2011 KIA Classic Champion, said.

The big boost in the community is also going to help the local businesses surrounding the event. Extreme Pizza will be hosting a dinner for Broadmoor employees in exchange for advertising at the U.S. Women's Open.  They'll also be doubling up their staff in preparation for larger than usual crowds.

"We think it might be a good idea to put an extra two people, especially for the weekend," Dora Converse, Extreme Pizza owner, said.

The week-long golf championship has got the Broadmoor trying to break a record for attendance. They're hoping to hit more than 131,000 people, a record set back in 2005.

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