Columbia Hopes to Gain From NCAA Tournament

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Columbia, S.C. (WOLO) — For the first time in 13 years, the city of Columbia is hosting the NCAA Women’s Basketball Tournament. “It’s been a long time coming,” said Executive Director of the Columbia Regional Sports Council, Scott Powers. The Lady Gamecocks will welcome three other teams over the weekend to Colonial Life Arena, which will drive thousands of fans to Columbia. “This is really spectator driven,” said Powers. “These people are coming into town, they have more free time than participants do.” Powers says they conducted an economic impact study which predicts the NCAA Tournament will bring in about $1.3 million for the city. “We have 2 games Friday and then we have 1 game on Sunday, but that leaves Saturday wide open for visitors and people to come to town and go to museums, the zoo, spend time in Columbia, go shopping, so it’s a benefit to us in they’ve got an extra day that they’re going to spend money in Columbia,” explained Powers. Meanwhile, Carolina Ale House is ready for the crowds to descend on Columbia. They are adding extra staff and new food and drink specials to their menu. “It is terribly exciting to have everybody coming here and joining us,” said Manager Greg Gerrans. Gerrans says the tournament will benefit many businesses in Columbia. But as for his own, he hopes they will see an increase in business of about 10-15%. “It’s just a great money maker, it brings a lot of business, a lot of attention, we’re just really excited to be apart of it and especially proud the NCAA women’s tournament is being played here, Go Lady Gamecocks!” said Gerrans. Powers also says the tournament is a great opportunity to put Columbia on the map for future national events.