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Revealed Comparative Advantage and Specialization in Athletics

Author

Listed:
  • Cindy Du Bois

    (Vrije Universiteit Brussel)

  • Bruno Heyndels

    (Vrije Universiteit Brussel)

Abstract

Using entries in the 2005 IAAF rankings as a measure of a country’s success in athletics, we analyse intercountry differences in athletic specialisation (measured through an index for revealed symmetric comparative advantage). A Tobit II model identifies macro-economic, sociological and political conditions that shape patterns of specialisation. We observe geographical patterns: African and Carribean (and to a lesser extent Asian) countries have a ‘typical’ pattern of specialisation. Highly populated as well as richer countries diversify more. Larger countries specialise in sprinting and middle distance running while leading to comparative disadvantages in non-running events. Finally, (former) socialist countries have a significant revealed comparative advantage in non-running events and a disadvantage in sprinting.

Suggested Citation

  • Cindy Du Bois & Bruno Heyndels, 2007. "Revealed Comparative Advantage and Specialization in Athletics," Working Papers 0717, International Association of Sports Economists;North American Association of Sports Economists.
    • Handle: RePEc:spe:wpaper:0717
    as

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    File URL: http://web.holycross.edu/RePEc/spe/DuBoisHeyndels_Specialization.pdf
    File Function: Paper presented at the 2007 IASE Conference in Dayton, Ohio
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    athletics; revealed comparative advantage; specialisation;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • L83 - Industrial Organization - - Industry Studies: Services - - - Sports; Gambling; Restaurants; Recreation; Tourism

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