“Sports Destination Management,” the leading publication serving sports event planners and tournament directors within the sports tourism market, has unveiled the 2023 Champions of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism today. Among these champions stands IRONMAN® 70.3® Pennsylvania Happy Valley, an honor that recognizes the event's remarkable success this past summer, emphasizing its capacity to exemplify the power of sports, community, and the charm of Happy Valley.

The economic impact included $3.09 million in spending by visitors and $1.35 million that was spent between businesses. HVSEA said the triathlon supported more than 1,680 jobs, which translates to 35 full-time equivalent employees.

“Economic success” can now be added to the list of descriptions for the inaugural IRONMAN® 70.3® Pennsylvania Happy Valley triathlon. The Happy Valley Sports & Entertainment Alliance (HVSEA) today reported that the event generated more than $4.4 million for the local economy, resulting in an estimated 7,170 room nights over the course of the three to four nights of the July 2 competition.

The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau was awarded $70,000 for the 2023 Ironman 70.3 Triathlon in State College. The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau will use the funds to help offset expenses associated with marketing, site fees, on-site hospitality, and general costs that pertain to conducting the event.

IRONMAN® 70.3® Pennsylvania Happy Valley has earned a nomination for "Best New Sports Event" from the industry publication SportsTravel. This nomination stands as a testament to the hard work put forth by volunteers, organizers, and participants.