Fifty thousand visitors are expected this weekend for what's considered the Super Bowl of off-road racing, the AMSOIL Cup Challenge races at Crandon International Raceway
. While the sports top drivers are competing for prizes, the Northwoods economy also gets a boost from all the visitors says Forest County Economic Development Partnership Director Mark Ferris....
"...You're talking in the neighborhood of 50,000 people attending the races and all the events surrounding the world championships this weekend. Within a 40 mile radius of Crandon it's difficult to find lodging available. The impact be it lodging, dining, retail, services, it's an incredible impact...."
Department of Tourism statistics show an overnight traveler spends on average about $144 per day when they visit, while day trippers spend about $64 per day. He says visitors started arriving earlier in the week and "Camp Crandon" at the racetrack was full.
Ferris says this is the 49th year for the races at Crandon and thinks a special event will happen when the races celebrates 50 years next year.
More information is at crandonoffroad.com
