"USA Gymnastics is pleased to bring our most prestigious national event to Philadelphia," said Bob Colarossi, USA Gymnastics president. "We look forward to an exciting gymnastics competition in a great sports town."

The 20,000 fans and participants in attendance will use approximately 6,000 total room nights in Philadelphia. The qualifier for the World Championships, the U.S. Gymnastics Championships is estimated to generate an economic impact of more than $5 million for Philadelphia.

"We are truly excited to host the U.S. Gymnastics Championships in Philadelphia," said Larry Needle, executive director, Philadelphia Sports Congress, a division of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau. "Combined with the World Dragon Boat Racing Championships from August 1-5, and ESPN X Games from August 17-23, Philadelphia is the place to be for sporting events this summer."

The U.S. Gymnastics Championships, showcasing the talents of more than 100 gymnasts, will crown national champions in both all-around and individual event finals. The event also selects the 2001-2002 Senior and Junior National Teams, which will represent the U.S. in national and international competitions throughout the year.

Tickets can be purchased at all Ticketmaster outlets, charge-by-phone at 215/336-2000, online at www.ticketmaster.com or at the Liacouras Center ticket office.

The annual USA Gymnastics National Congress, a forum for coaches and club owners at all levels, is held in conjunction with the U.S. Gymnastics Championships. The Congress, which focuses on gymnastics excellence through education, will offer more than 120 sessions in Philadelphia. The Philadelphia Marriott will serve as the Congress host hotel and meeting site.

The Philadelphia Sports Congress (PSC), a division of the Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau, seeks to attract major sporting events and conventions to Philadelphia. PSC pursues bids for future sporting events and facilitates their successful implementation in Philadelphia.

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