Not many events are actually growing in a bad economy.

But this weekend's head of the hooch is the exception.

It's bringing a record number of people to town.

And that's a big win for the city.

It's a name that requires some explanation for newcomers. They used to call it the Head of the Chattahoochee when this rowing race was held in Georgia, but now the Head of the Hooch is a title they love to hear in downtown.

It brings in thousands of people and millions of dollars every year who pay sales and hotel taxes.

BOB DOAK, PRES. OF VISITORS BUREAU "It's an employment base for our community..the tourism industry provides over 7-thousand 500 jobs."

Sponsored by the Lookout Rowing Club and the Atlanta Rowing Club, the 8600 crew team members who came this year brought along almost 4-thousand friends and family. And the turnout was a pleasant surprise.

BOB DOAK "There was some concern early on that there would be a slowing on participants..slowing of impact to our community due to the economy we live in today ...If their numbers were up about 25%. "

That translates into more than 4-point-3 million dollars.

The young rowers today were taking turns practicing at Ross's landing..and praising the fact that the two floating docks make is easy to get their heavy boats into and out of the water.

The organizers, meanwhile were praising local cooperation.

DANIEL WOLFF, DIR., HEAD OF THE HOOCH "They have put fun into the regatta..they are very easy to work with and we are glad to have them as part of our team."

County Mayor Claude Ramsey says it was events like this that attracted Volkswagen to the area.

MAYOR CLAUDE RAMSEY, HAMILTON COUNTY "We have something special here..we live in a beautiful place ...It's a great place to visit, but its also a great place to work and to live."

This is the 5th year the 29 year old rowing regatta has been held in Chattanooga.

There are also two events this weekend that raise money for breast cancer research.

We've got more tips on how to catch the action at WDEF dot com.