Greasing the wheels for sport tourism: key success factors for participants at the 2019 Cape Town cycle tour

Abstract

This study considered the key success factors (KSFs) for participants in sport tourism events, with a specific focus on the views of participants of the Cape Town Cycle Tour (CTCT). Adopting a quantitative approach and utilising systematic sampling, n=598 cyclists were sampled in both the mountain biking (n=218) and the road cycling (n=380) categories, through self-administered questionnaires at event registration venues between February and March 2019. The data were analysed using SPSS via a factor analysis. Of the 49 identified elements, eight corresponding KSFs emerged. Key findings highlighted the non-homogenous nature of the respective participant groups and noted differences in the rating of four of the eight KSFs. While road cyclists were noted to be seekers of fully rounded event experience, mountain bikers preferred to participate in activities promoting exploration and adventure. Importantly, the study highlights that understanding KSFs might assist concerned stakeholders with stimulating sport tourism participation through the hosting of tailor-made events for participants who might be more selective in their desires when travelling and participating in sport events. Insights from the study should prove crucial in attracting both new and previous participants, particularly considering the context of the COVID-19 pandemic that significantly hampered participation at such events.