Ryder Cup To Bring Money, Exposure

When the 2008 Ryder Cup comes to Louisville in September, it’s estimated the event will have an economic impact of more than $120 million dollars.Before that money comes in, though, local and state government will have to spend several million dollars to provide security and proper facilities related to the competition.“Along with the police, we’ve got to have – obviously – the support of the suburban firehouses," says Mayor Jerry Abramson. "We’ve got to have the support of the ambulance services. Some of that will be paid by the PGA. We’re in a situation where we feel very confident we’ve got things covered.”Abramson says the initial investment will be worth the financial return as well as the international exposure for Louisville and surrounding areas. The Ryder Cup competition between top golfers from the U.S. and Europe is the second most watched sporting event in the world, behind the World Cup soccer tournament.