A research study conducted by Gratton, Shibli, and Coleman (2005) evaluated the social and economic relevance of sporting events and the appropriateness of related investments. These researchers hypothesized that the aim of the sporting investments seen within cities for the last twenty years was not directed towards the prowess of the local sports. The problem was that these investments boosted the economic state of the cities, attracted tourists, and developed foreign empowerments without addressing the involvement of the local community. In this regard, the researchers assessed various literatures and backgrounds to affirm the state of the urban development related to sporting events. In fact, the researchers accessed information from distinct location in North America where vast funding was directed towards stadia constructions. The study involved other nations and events such as the UK and Commonwealth Games Manchester 2002 respectively. Furthermore, they analyzed the long-term benefits associated to such events as Olympics, and World Student Games among others. While developing this reverse argument within the current literatures, the funds used when financing the sports’ events and the generated revenue were recorded and measured depending on worth. The study was significant for availing the gap present within the understanding of sports as a trigger for economic development rather than an attribute enhanced by it. Eventually, the researchers found that sports had reliable capabilities to provide considerable economic and social benefits for the use of the regional and local improvement. However, they identified that the economic income to the local communities had not received adequate attention from researchers.
The research topic is addressed by the use of literature to validate its purpose. The review of secondary data from the literature is the main aspect of the study through the review of various sources. The research did not verify the sample size of the resources used during the study. There are evident applications of simplified analysis through the use of tables and other figures to facilitate accuracy. Also, the researchers make a valid comparison between Europe and North America. While comparing these two regions, the ideas about the relationship between sports and economic regeneration are discussed in an integrated manner. It avails that sports contribute to economic development through the attraction of local and foreign tourists. The research shows a relationship of more than one literal aspect of real situations, which are evaluated using empirical studies. However, there is no apparent empirical structure in the paper. It does not only avoid the standard empirical topics and randomization of data collection, but also fails to present precise methods to affirm claims.
The article is relevant to my future research topic especially because it evaluates the challenges of effective strategies in sports’ planning. It shows that the role of the sports’ industry is paramount in economic development. The establishment of infrastructure due to investments provides funding that brings foreign income. The development enhances employment opportunities, social development and tourism. It also increases the reputation of the city that acts as a strategic marketing style, which attracts a huge number of tourists. The article relates to the topic through explaining the role of sports in economic development. Furthermore, it reveals other benefits of sports apart from those perceived due to the existing knowledge gap. There are many long-term benefits arising from these investment funds. Therefore, the high levels of economic development can be realized if the sports’ industry is managed appropriately.
Reference
Gratton, C., Shibli, S., & Coleman, R. (2005). Sport and Economic Regeneration in Cities. Urban Studies, 46(6), 985-999.