Italy: Sport Tourism Events. The Case of the Rome-Ostia Half Marathon

This Italian case study of the Roma-Ostia Half Marathon was carried out with the aim of looking at the socio-economic impact of the event on the local territory and its contribution to the development of communities. In Italy, there are 70 marathons and 271 half marathons distributed throughout the year, mainly thanks to the Italian climate. The Roma-Ostia Half Marathon is the oldest marathon, and the one with the largest number of participants (almost 12,000). The whole survey analysed the host city and event characteristics, concentrating on social, cultural, economic and environmental aspects. The study shows that, although this sporting event is very much appreciated by the participants (58%) and evidently pays attention to the protection of the environment (60%), it does not sufficiently promote opportunities for tourism (21%). Local development could also be better improved by reinforcing the relationship between the team organization and the public administration. Unfortunately, in Italy (and not only in this country) a strategic planning of this type is lacking. Among the positive aspects that emerged from the research were the sense of belonging and pride of the event (88%), and the number of tourists it attracted (93%).