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Dayton To Ask Legislature For Ryder Cup Funding

CHASKA, Minn. (WCCO) -- The Ryder Cup countdown officially began on Monday in Minnesota.

It's one of golf's most prestigious tournaments, and it kicks off one year from now at Hazeltine Golf Course in Chaska. And top Minnesota officials are hoping to capitalize on the worldwide attention.

Some of the world's greatest golfers from the U.S. and Europe are coming to Hazeltine for the coveted Ryder Cup.

And at the Ryder Cup countdown Monday, the captain of the European team promised an electric atmosphere at one of golf's premier events.

"I can't wait for the year -- the Ryder Cup year -- to get back here again.  It is going to be brilliant. We are going to showcase Minneapolis all over the world, and we are going to put on a really good show for you." European Ryder Cup Captain Clarke said.

The Ryder Cup is among the most watched sporting events in the world. It's broadcast to 160 countries over five days, with at least 500 million viewers.

Governor Mark Dayton says he'll ask the Legislature next year for Ryder Cup funding to cover traffic costs, law enforcement overtime pay and showcase Minnesota.

"It's just a huge event nationally and internationally. Worldwide, probably second only to the Super Bowl in terms of national and international attention so it's a very big deal and a great honor for Minnesota," Dayton said.

The economic impact, from Ryder Cup merchandise to spending by 250,000 spectators, is expected to top $135 million.

One state lawmaker who represents the district that includes Hazeltine says it's an opportunity to market Minnesota business to the rest of the world.

"And they are all going to be looking at Minnesota and looking at our weather and the things we have here. So if we are looking to get tourists and we are looking to get businesses, this is a pretty good venue," Rep. Joe Hoppe said.

Next year's Ryder Cup is the start of a string of high profile sporting events in Minnesota: The Ryder Cup in 2016, the Super Bowl in 2018 and the NCAA Final Four in 2019.

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