OCALA, FL (352today.com) – The nation’s best are coming to Ocala as Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training (FAST) prepares to host two major events this summer: the USA Swimming Futures Championships, featuring the best in rising talent, from July 23-26, and the USA Swimming Speedo Sectionals, set for June 26-29.

FAST’s impact goes beyond the pool

In anticipation of events like these, the Ocala/Marion County Visitor and Convention Bureau conducted a dedicated economic study to measure FAST’s growing impact on the local community.

Millions generated through sports tourism

“That covers the time frame from April 1, 2023, to March 31, 2024,” said Jessica Heller, Ocala/Marion County Visitor Convention Bureau marketing and communications supervisor, tourist development. “We partner with Downs and St. Germain who we also do our general impact study and visitor tracking with, as well.”

For that timeframe, FAST had an economic impact on the community of over $21.4 million, said Heller.

Thousands drawn to Marion County

Those figures are based on direct and indirect expenditures, with $13.8 million coming from direct spending including overnight stays, dining at local restaurants, and related travel expenses.

FAST welcomed nearly 64,000 visitors during the study period, including overnight guests, day-trippers, volunteers, and spectators. 

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