An Investigation of Social Impacts for Sports Events on Local Communities: The Case of Sriwijaya Gran Fondo Cycling Event on South Ogan Komering Ulu Regency, South Sumatera, Indonesia

The growth and popularity of athletic events in Indonesia might cause ripple effects in the tourism and creative economy sectors. Sports are not only a need but have also become a part of people’s lifestyles. Cycling is one of the most popular leisure sports in urban areas. The Sriwijaya Gran Fondo’s goal is to introduce and promote tourism through supporting improvements in all areas, such as micro, small, and medium firms, to strengthen the community’s economy. The purpose of this study is to investigate the social impact of cycling activities on local communities. This study aims to examine their perspectives of societal repercussions in terms of (1) image and reputation; (2) international exchange and collaboration; (3) living inconvenience; (4) environmental pollution and safety issues; (5) economic development and tourism; and (6) infrastructural development. To supplement the primary research, the secondary data results were translated into questions. For two weeks, an online questionnaire was used for primary research, and 91 valid responses were successfully obtained by SPSS before being connected with secondary data. According to the findings, the Sriwijaya Ranau Gran Fondo boosted the friendliness and civility of the community’s citizens. The tournament also provided international sports development opportunities for Banding Agung inhabitants. The Sriwijaya Gran Fondo event increased the cost of living in Banding Agung, which created anxiety. The Sriwijaya Gran Fondo attracts tourists and provides entertainment for Banding Agung inhabitants. Through component analysis, four factors were discovered: the negative influence of the incident, community progress, infrastructural development, and quality of life.