Small but mighty: the influence of small-scale sport event factors on event and destination satisfaction

Abstract

A growing number of destinations are organizing small-scale sport events (SSSE). These events have been shown to bring economic, and tourist benefits to the territories that host them. However, to unlock the full potential of the event, it is vital to maximize participant satisfaction with the event’s experience. This study investigates SSSE participants’ satisfaction with not only the event, but also the host destination. It empirically examines the influence of three constructs on satisfaction: quality of service, sporting discipline practised, and distance of the event from the place of residence, becoming the first to integrate these constructs into a single model. Data were collected from 476 respondents participating at five different Small-Scale Sport Events in Osona, Catalonia, Spain. The data were analysed using the Structural Equation Model with Smart-PLS software. The results show several key influencers affecting satisfaction with the event and with the host destination. The authors found significant relationships between the quality of the service and satisfaction with the event and the destination; between the sporting discipline practised and satisfaction with the event; and between distance from the place of residence and satisfaction with the destination. To maximize participant satisfaction with both the event and the destination, event organizers should focus on quality service considering the specific characteristics of the participants.