80% of Edmonton tickets sold

This weekend's Grand Prix of Edmonton and the World Masters Games, which kick off next week, should bring $40 million of extra money into the city, says the Edmonton Economic Development Corporation.

"We estimate it will be $20 million each," said Jim Rudolph, spokesman for the EEDC. "That includes money spent on hotel rooms, food, beverages, entertainment, shopping and transportation."

Throw Klondike Days, which runs July 21-30, into the mix, and it's a busy time for Edmonton businesses.

"It is a tremendous boost for the economy and for the hospitality industry at what is traditionally a slow time of year," said Richard Wong, general manager of the Sutton Place Hotel and vice-president of the Association of Edmonton Convention Hotels. Wong said there are still rooms available in town for Grand Prix weekend.

Sid Priddle, spokesman for the Grand Prix, said 80% of the grandstand tickets have been sold and general admission tickets are now on sale. Edmonton Sun