U.S. Bank Pole Pedal Paddle boosts Bend’s economy

Springtime in Bend can be summed up in three words: pole, pedal and paddle.

For Teague Hatfield, the owner of the FootZone in downtown Bend, it’s a boost in foot traffic for his store.

“It’s just another reason people are motivated to be active and engaged, and all of that is positive for people shopping and making sure they have the right gear and the right fitting shoes and they want to be active,” Hatfield said Monday.

In the week leading up to the U.S. Bank Pole Pedal Paddle, the FootZone sees a 20 percent boost in sales, which Hatfield said is a positive impact to not only his shop, but the Central Oregon community.

“All events in Bend help promote traffic, and it’s all good for keeping things rolling in our active community,” Hatfield said.

Organizer Molly Cogswell-Kelley said this year, the Mount Bachelor Sports Education Foundation is expecting close to 2,700 participants from all over the Pacific Northwest.

“I think people understand the economic impact,” she said. “Restaurants are going to be full, gas stations will be full, hotels will be full — and this brings more awareness to the community.”

Cogswell-Kelley said the event not only helps the economy during the weekend, but also helps drive business year-round.

“This race has really put Bend on the map,” she said.”I can’t even tell you how many people I have talked to that said, ‘We didn’t know Bend existed and bought a second home or relocated to Bend because of this event.'”

“Visit Bend” also noticed an uptick in traffic during the Pole Pedal Paddle weekend.

They say the event encourages athletes to not only participate, but also to help keep the economy flowing