How the Cycling World Championship Is Making a Massive $7.5 Million in the Community

The global cycling spectacle known as the UCI Cycling World Championships that unfolded in August 2023 witnessed the athletic prowess of the cyclists. It was the Glentress Forest that turned out to be the haven of Scotland’s prized mountain biking events. Amidst the towering trees of the forest, the event gave rise to economic triumph, a tale worth over £6 million.

The cycling championship witnessed participation from all around the globe and the Scottish borders reaped significant economic benefits. Hence, by hosting the Mountain Bike Cross-country & Cross-country Marathon, the forest site became a site for professional and economic prosperity.

A premier cycling venue boosted the local economy

The Glentress Forest has been known as a top-tier biking destination. However, by debuting as Scotland’s premier mountain biking location, the venue broadened its appeal among cycling enthusiasts. Due to the championship being stationed in the forest, it experienced an influx of local and international visitors. 

As a result of this, the local economy has been subjected to a boost of £6 million resulting from revenue brought about by the cycling event in the form of tourism, hospitality and retail sectors. 

As reported by The Herald, the Executive Member for Community and Business Development, councillor Scott Hamilton shared his gratitude stating, “The boost to the local economy from competitors, support staff, spectators, event staff and volunteers is substantial, and provided a huge return on our investment in the event. I’d like to thank all the partners involved in putting on the Championships in the Borders.”

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The tangible economic benefits acquired from different sources managed to provide positive results. Getting satisfactory results against the investment made by the council during the championship, reflected the commitment of the UCI Cycling World Championship 

Glentress forest served as a catalyst for regional development

Besides the commitment, the results shed light on the strategic investments of the organizers of the cycling event that in turn fostered economic growth. The financial gain that the Scottish borders witnessed solidified the reputation of the forest region as a desirable host for the upcoming cycling races. The economic success has been a matter of community pride that stemmed from the success of the Glentress Forest brilliantly hosting mountain bike events. 

The Chief Executive Officer, Trudy Lindbalde shared his views on the long-term appeal of the region stating, “It was tremendous to see so many international and local visitors descend on the region in support of the World Championships, providing a significant boost for the economy and supporting the legacy ambitions of South of Scotland Cycling Strategy which will further embrace the power of the bike.” Besides financial benefits, the economic and promotional value of cycling events plays a pivotal role in addressing societal issues like fuel poverty and community isolation. 

Therefore, the Glentress Forest has helped the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships to leave an enduring impact on the Scottish borders in terms of reducing regional gaps and delivering economic gains. The event promised positive experiences to the visitors and thereby secured its sustained legacy heightening the global profile of Scottish borders.

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