Marathon Boosts Manitou Springs Economy

It?s been a busy weekend in southern Colorado with visitors coming from all over the country.

The Pikes Peak Ascent and Marathon gave Manitou Springs businesses a boost. As runners ascended up the mountain, some motel owners saw their profits climb higher.

Runners had the finish line in sight, as businesses owners eyed their bottom line.

?We are approximately half a mile from the starting line,? said Jesse Bryja, owner of the Best Western SkyWay Inn & Suites on Manitou Avenue.

That?s going to help Bryja meet his bottom line.

The motels filled up fast.

?We were booked solid Thursday, Friday and Saturday,? said Andy Tree with Manitou Inn & Suites at Pikes Peak. ?The race has a big impact on us.?

?Friday night we got lot of phone calls, you know six from people looking for rooms, but we were sold out,? said Bryja.

They wish events like this one came along more often.

?We?d like to see them once a week,? said Bill James, owner of the Eagle Motel.

They are taking advantage of the uptick in traffic, counting on the revenue they rake in to sustain them through the slower months.

?When the tourists leave, then you don’t have as much business and this helps us get through the winter, and helps pay the bills,? said Tree.

They are making sure to keep their customers satisfied so they?ll return.

?Right after the race is here, for example, they make reservation for next year,? said Bryja. ?It?s kind of big event.?