PUSH Magazine Volume 4, Issue 5

INDUSTRY CONFIDENTIAL Check in every issue for the unfiltered thoughts of our guest writers and contributors as they discuss the hottest topics in sports tourism.

In this issue, our guest writer discusses the subject of complementarity.

In the dynamic world of sports tourism, cities and destinations often find themselves vying to host high-profile sporting events. The competition for these events can be fierce, with each destination striving to outdo the others regarding facilities, infrastructure, and attractions. However, an alternative perspective suggests that rather than viewing each other as rivals, these destinations can benefit more by adopting a complementary approach. Let’s explore the idea that competition in sales between destinations for sporting events doesn’t have to be cutthroat but can be a synergistic collaboration that contributes to the fulfillment of each destination’s annual goals.

The Current Landscape of Sports Tourism Before delving into the concept of complementarity, it’s essential to understand the current landscape of sports tourism. Cities and destinations worldwide invest heavily in creating state-of-the-art facilities, improving transportation networks, and enhancing their overall appeal to attract sporting events. The economic benefits of hosting such events are significant, ranging from increased tourism revenue to heightened global visibility.

However, the competitive nature of bidding for these events often leads to a zero-sum game mentality, where one destination’s gain is perceived as another’s loss. This traditional approach to competition can limit the potential growth and collaboration within the sports tourism industry.

The Concept of Complementarity in Sports Tourism Complementarity in sports tourism refers to the idea that destinations can work together to enhance the overall appeal of a region as a host of sporting events. Rather than competing for the same events, destinations can identify their unique strengths and collaborate strategically to create a network of complementary offerings.

For instance, one city might excel in hosting water-based sports events, while another may have a rich cultural and historical background suitable for hosting marathons or outdoor adventure sports. By recognizing and capitalizing on these differences, destinations can create a symbiotic relationship where each complements the other.

Building a Network of Specialized Destinations Destinations can proactively identify their specialized niches and build a network highlighting these strengths. This approach requires a shift in mindset from viewing other destinations as competitors to seeing them as collaborators in a broader ecosystem of sports tourism.

Collaborative efforts can involve sharing best practices, coordinating event calendars to avoid overlap, and jointly marketing the network of destinations to event organizers and participants. The goal is to create a collective brand that emphasizes the diverse offerings across the network, ultimately attracting a more comprehensive range of sporting events.

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