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The Role of Organizers in Advancing Sustainable Sport Tourism: Insights from Small-Scale Running Events in Greece

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  • Sofia Gkarane

    (Department of Business Administration, International Hellenic University, 62124 Serres, Greece)

  • Androniki Kavoura

    (Department of Business Administration, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece)

  • Chris Vassiliadis

    (Department of Business Administration, University of Macedonia, 54636 Thessaloniki, Greece)

  • Iordanis Kotzaivazoglou

    (Department of Business Administration, International Hellenic University, 62124 Serres, Greece)

  • Garyfallos Fragidis

    (Department of Business Administration, International Hellenic University, 62124 Serres, Greece)

  • Vasiliki Vrana

    (Department of Business Administration, International Hellenic University, 62124 Serres, Greece)

Abstract

The contribution of small-scale sporting events to tourism sustainable development in local communities has been well recognized in the literature. Small-scale running events in particular are essential in the promotion of sustainable tourism in the community due to their localized impact. Although research has largely focused on the demand side—including participants, spectators, and host communities—limited attention has been given to the supply side, particularly the perspectives of sport event organizers and their role in implementing sustainable practices. This study aims to address this gap and answer key research questions that concern the factors which contribute to the success of these events in relation to their economic, social, and environmental impacts through the lens of the events’ primary decision-makers, their organizers. This study employs an exploratory research method, conducting interviews with twenty-five organizers of diverse Greek running events that represent a variety of geographical contexts and event characteristics of the country, based on their long-standing presence. Findings contribute to sustainable sport tourism literature by developing a theoretical framework which encompasses the three dimensions of sustainability, highlighting inclusivity as a key component within the social dimension. Results indicate that organizers perceive their running events as having a positive economic impact and enhancing social cohesion. They are also aware of the potential environmental impact, like trail preservation, and consequently implement responsible measures to protect the environment. Organizers share a variety of specific strategies and practical suggestions aimed at improving the sustainability of running events, such as managing waste effectively or improving accessibility for diverse participants, offering transferable insights for other event planners and local authorities. This paper showcases the key role of organizers in developing partnerships to implement effective sustainable sport event practices in the destination.

Suggested Citation

  • Sofia Gkarane & Androniki Kavoura & Chris Vassiliadis & Iordanis Kotzaivazoglou & Garyfallos Fragidis & Vasiliki Vrana, 2025. "The Role of Organizers in Advancing Sustainable Sport Tourism: Insights from Small-Scale Running Events in Greece," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(14), pages 1-18, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:17:y:2025:i:14:p:6399-:d:1700435
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    2. Delfien Van Dyck & Greet Cardon & Ilse De Bourdeaudhuij & Lisa De Ridder & Annick Willem, 2017. "Who Participates in Running Events? Socio-Demographic Characteristics, Psychosocial Factors and Barriers as Correlates of Non-Participation—A Pilot Study in Belgium," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 14(11), pages 1-14, October.
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    4. Javier Campillo-Sánchez & Francisco José Borrego-Balsalobre & Arturo Díaz-Suárez & Vicente Morales-Baños, 2025. "Sports and Sustainable Development: A Systematic Review of Their Contribution to the SDGs and Public Health," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(2), pages 1-13, January.
    5. Joanna Poczta & Ewa Malchrowicz-Mośko, 2018. "Modern Running Events in Sustainable Development—More than Just Taking Care of Health and Physical Condition (Poznan Half Marathon Case Study)," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 10(7), pages 1-14, June.
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