Event sport tourism business models: the case of trail running

Abstract

Purpose Sporting events are the core of sport tourism. However, when it comes to business models (BM) in the context of event sport tourism, that is, how value is created and delivered at events, there is an obvious lack of research. The purpose of this paper is to deepen the understanding of BMs in the specific context of event sport tourism. Design/methodology/approach Focusing on trail-running sport events which are rapidly growing in popularity, the paper assesses actual events relative to the existing conceptual BM framework by using the analytical possibilities of the multiple-case study and by applying the interview and observation methods. Findings The results indicate that the core logic of the examined event-related sport tourism practices is very similar, although there are some significant differences. In addition, this study raises questions concerning potential modifications within the applied framework. Primarily, these relate to the partner network being identified as a second-order theme and an independent BM category and, communication with stakeholders (primarily with competitors), as a key process within the event BM. Originality/value This paper focuses on under-researched topics in the context of tourism, that is, the BM concept in relation to event sport tourism in general and trail-running sport tourism in particular. The paper provides a better understanding of the BM concept as a whole, and trail-running event sport tourism suppliers could benefit from the research findings by potentially avoiding business mistakes.

Effects of Ultratrail Running on Neuromuscular Function, Muscle Damage and Hydration Status. Differences According to Training Level

“…Despite trail running races being extremely hard, the organization of the sport has exponentially grown worldwide in recent times [ 6 , 7 , 8 ], and Spain is no exception [ 9 ]. The marked demand expected today of such races has drawn more participants, to the extent that the number of runners in races must be limited, which has led to some runners becoming professionals with enhanced ultratrail race performance [ 10 ].…”

Digital transformation of professional sports organizations’ business model: The case of the US National Football League

“…Ряд публикаций, в которых встречается понятие «бизнес-модель», имеет непосредственное отношение к профессиональным спортивным объединениям или организации массовых спортивных событий (см., напр. : [McNamara, Peck, Sasson, 2013;Peric, Wise, Dragicevic, 2017;Peric, Slavic, 2019]). В исследовании [McNamara, Peck, Sasson, 2013] проведен эмпирический анализ с целью выяснить, существуют ли устойчивые бизнес-модели для английской футбольной премьер-лиги, c помощью которых можно было бы одновременно создавать ценность для потребителей и обеспечивать соответствующий финансовый успех.…”

Digital Business Models in Sport

“…The findings indicate that although the BMs of the two events differ in many aspects, they have a strong emphasis on networks and managerial processes aimed at ensuring participant safety and preservation of the environment" ( Perić, Vitezić, & Mekinc, 2019, p. 379). Another multiple case study analysis of business models in sports tourism, with the emphasis on trail running, is provided by Perić and Slavić ( 2019). The collection of case studies is complemented by the work of Jenkins and Rios-Morales ( 2013), , and Wise et al ( 2019).…”