Big Fogg, a pioneer in outdoor cooling, has been the quiet MVP of the US Open, providing misting fans for the iconic tennis tournament.
Although temperatures soared to sweltering levels, this year's event was reportedly the most crowded with more than 75,000 people during the first five days.
The United States Tennis Association’s Billie Jean King National Tennis Centre in New York has been packed with tennis fans in dire need of relief from the heat.
For the 15th consecutive year, the USTA commissioned Bigg Fogg to install its signature 30-inch high-pressure misting fans at the tournament.
This year, 18 fans were strategically placed around the concourse notably in the event's high traffic areas.
Big Fogg general manager, Tom Ernst, said that over the years it's been getting hotter and hotter as a result of climate change.
“It is becoming more important to keep people cool at major sporting events like this,” Ernst said.
“We are honoured to be able to provide our fans and offer refreshing relief from the extreme heat."
The U.S. Open Fan Week, the first week of the tournament when attendees get to participate in free, exclusive events and activities for all ages, was the hottest when temperatures climbed to 95 degrees. Combined with the humidity, the heat index rose to over 100.
"The tennis fans, both adults and kids, really enjoy our misting fans. The minute people see them, they'll walk right up to them and just stand there taking in the mist," according to Sam Gibson, a Big Fogg technician on site. "The fans are oscillating, and the cool mist is spraying so it's one of the best experiences."
Big Fogg president, Christopher Miehl, said this has been the busiest year for the company.
“We have developed a new generation of products to augment our high-pressure misting fans including aluminum cooling benches, misting sideline shade structures and portable misting walls,” Miehl said.
Founded in 1999, Big Fogg is a leader in outdoor cooling and heating products. The US Open ended yesterday.