How do perceptions of non-mega sport events impact quality of life and support for the event among local residents?

Abstract

Previous research has overlooked the influence of non-mega sport events on local residents' perceptions of quality of life and their attitude toward the hosting of events; in particular, there is a major research void in understanding residents' opinions in Chinese cities that are making escalated efforts in staging small to medium size sport events. This study examined the relationships among the perceived impacts of sport event, quality of life, and event support of local residents at a marathon event in China. Findings revealed that perceived psychological and social impacts by local residents were found to be positively predictive of their quality of life and event support, perceived economic impact had no significant influence, perceived environmental impact was significant in facilitating residents' quality of life although it was not influential of their support for the event directly. Implications are discussed furtherly.