MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. (WBTW) — The inaugural Myrtle Beach Classic PGA Tour event in May had a $15.4 million economic impact on the local economy, officials said on Thursday.
“The event has exceeded our expectations in every possible way,” said Darren Nelson, tournament director. “Knowing that $15.4 million was put back into the Grand Strand economy is incredibly rewarding. It not only supports local business — both big and small — but generates additional tax income that ultimately improves the destination and enhances the quality of life for residents.”
The four-day tournament at the Dunes Golf and Beach Club drew more than 40,000 spectators and 132 players to the Grand Strand. Roughly 1,300 volunteers helped put on the event.
The $15.4 million economic impact was among the second-largest ever for an event on the Grand Strand, officials said. Only the 2015 Carolina Country Music Fest in Myrtle Beach was larger at $20 million.
Here are some other key facts released by tournament organizers: