HOSTING the Ryder Cup has "captured the imagination" of Scotland and will deliver huge benefits to the economy, the country's tourism chief has said.
Mike Cantlay, chairman of VisitScotland, believes the international sporting event will cement Scotland's reputation as the home of golf while the benefits will stretch across many sectors of the tourism industry.
More than 250,000 fans are expected to travel to Gleneagles in Perthshire for the three days of golf this month, with the event being held on Scottish soil for the first time in almost 40 years.
Experts predict that the Europe versus the USA tussle will bring about £100 million to the economy and leave a lasting legacy which will ensure benefits for many years to come.
Mr Cantlay said: "As we saw during the Ryder Cup Trophy Tour, the event at Gleneagles has captured the imagination of people throughout the country.
"Hosting what is one of the world's biggest sporting events will not only enhance Scotland's reputation as the home of golf, but the legacy and economic benefits are being felt across the tourism industry, with accommodation providers, transport operators, food and drink suppliers and visitor attractions among those reaping the rewards.
"And with The Ryder Cup Gala Concert taking place on Wednesday, September 24 at The SSE Hydro, it is shaping up to be an exciting week for Scotland."
The Ryder Cup is broadcast to 183 countries worldwide via a network of 43 broadcasters, reaching more than half a billion homes each day of competition.
More than half of the 250,000 spectators expected to attend will come from outside Scotland, delivering a substantial boost to hotels as far away as Dundee, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
Planning for the event, which takes place from Friday, September 26 to Sunday, September 28, has been under way since 2001.
Special arrangements have been made to cope with the vast crowds travelling to the course each day, with three large temporary park-and-ride facilities set up.
All spectators will have to arrive by a dedicated bus or train, as there will be no access for private vehicles.
Access to Gleneagles rail station is being enhanced, and a temporary footbridge will carry ScotRail passengers over the A9. Bus and train services to and from the golf resort will also be stepped up during the tournament as organisers seek to avoid traffic congestion.
Patrick Elsmie, managing director of The Gleneagles Hotel, said nothing is being left to chance to ensure the tournament goes ahead hitch-free.
Police said they expect the event to be the safest ever. Extra steps have been taken in light of the heightened threat of terrorism that all large-scale events currently have to consider.
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