BETHESDA, Md. - There's no mistaking the economic impact Tiger Woods is having at this year's AT&T tournament.

Turnout this year is more than double last year when Woods wasn't at the event, and while shoppers are more selective at the merchandise tents, buying lower-priced items like tee shirts and hats is still looking at possible record sales.

While Woods shot his way to the lead at the tournament Friday, his legion of fans supported him - both on the links and in line. The crowds at Congressional Country Club have swarmed the souvenir shops. If Woods is wearing it, people are buying it.

The club's general manager says they dropped the prices this year because of the economy. Still, he thinks tournament sales will break the million dollar mark.

"We blew last year's numbers out of the water yesterday--it wasn't even close," said Michael Leemhuis, country club general manager.

"I spent $40 or more; my husband probably spent $100 or more," said Opal Elliott, a Falls Church resident.

Lindsay Bowen spent $70 on a golf shirt, but many people said prices at Congressional were cheaper than at the U.S. Open in New York.

"I thought it was right down the middle. Food-wise - I thought everything was very reasonable," Bowen, of Hilton Head, S.C., said.

Members of the military and children under 12 get in free, another something recession-weary golf fans appreciate, and Tiger Woods insists on.

"We want to have everyone come out and enjoy being in a family atmosphere; walk around, have a good time and not have it cost an arm and a leg," said Woods, tournament host and player.

Meanwhile, it seems Woods is somewhat a victim of his own success. The traffic on River Road to get to Congressional had him wondering if he'd make his tee time yesterday. More than 34,000 people turned out yesterday.

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