Abstract:

Sport tourism considered to be one of the emerging markets and a valuable resource for destinations. As such, it is vital to understand the motivations of the spectators and their perceptions towards the socio-economic benefits of sporting events. This study aims to analyze the motivations and perceived benefits of the spectators attending to XVII. Mediterranean Games organized in Mersin on 20-30 June 2013. The basic motivation of the spectators was found to be event atmosphere, novelty, socialization and escape. Further, it was found that the spectators are aware of the socio-economic benefits and costs of such sporting events. Finally, both the motivations and the perceptions of the benefits vary among the spectators according to their demographics. The study ends with a discussion of the results and suggestions on the organization of sporting events and increasing the community participation.

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