The 2024 Women’s Baseball World Cup in Thunder Bay has brought in 1,500 to 2,000 people each day.

Japan, USA, Canada, Venezuela, Mexico and Chinese Taipei are competing at Port Arthur Stadium, which began on Sunday and ends Saturday.

Vice President of the Thunder Bay International Baseball Association, Nick Melchiorre, says the games are benefitting the city economically.

“We’re getting great exposure around the world and here locally,” says Melchiorre. “I would say about 1,500 people are visiting, mostly from south of the border.”

There’s over 200 athletes and coaches, 40 officials, 50 media outlets internationally, and every game is broadcasted in the countries competing.

Community feedback has been more than positive so far, says Melchiorre. Canada lost a close game to Japan last night, and the crowd was breathless.

He adds that compared to the events in 2010 and 2017, pre-tournament sales skyrocketed this year.

“Ticket sales for tonight’s game are the best so far, for the Canada vs. U.S. game,” says Melchiorre.

Team Canada will fight to get into the medal round, and Melchiorre encourages folks to come out to show support.

“We want to see the medal on home turf, so we’re encouraging everyone to come out tonight to support Canada.”

Last night, the US improved to 3-0 with a 13-4 win over Canada.

Japan also remains undefeated as they shut out Venezuela 11-0 Tuesday afternoon.

Chinese Taipei has been eliminated from the medal round after being defeated by Mexico 9-3.