JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Millions of dollars will soon be racing into the River City when thousands of track and field fans take part in two of the country's biggest meets.
The exposure is a big shot in the arm for the local economy.
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The USA Masters Championship begins July 23, followed by the Junior Olympic Track & Field Championship four days later.
Alan Verlander of the Jacksonville Sports Council says the Junior Olympics is the largest track meet every year in the country, so about 10,000 child participants will bring their families to Jacksonville.
"It will be a tremendous 10-day stretch for the track and field world right here in Jacksonville," said Verlander. "This place will be buzzing and UNF is a great host and it's a nice stretch to put dollars into our community."
UNF Senior Associate Athletic Director Ervin Lewis agrees.
"It's a huge recruiting tool most people have never heard of UNF but what we see is once they come they don't want to leave a beautiful campus," Lewis said.
The two events are expected to bring more than 20,000 people to the River City. The economic impact is estimated to be more than $25 million.
Christina King is a former UNF track and field athlete. She can't wait for young athletes to get a glimpse of the school she called home for four years.
"I'm very excited. I'll be out here in the stands watching and cheering on local Jacksonville athletes, and I am really excited to watch the pole vault," King said.
The events will be going on from July 23 until Aug. 3. There is a daily admission fee of $10 per adult and $6 for children ages 7-12. Children under the age of 6 are free.
Traffic is expected to be more congested than normal in the area of UNF and the Town Center during the event days, and drivers are urged to plan accordingly.
The event is also looking for volunteers for the event. To learn more about becoming a volunteer you can email members@jacksonvillesportscouncil.com or call 904-798-1700.