Risk management for running events' organization on the example of half marathons in Poland

Abstract

Sports activities, running in particular, are becoming increasingly popular in Poland. Amateur runners are more and more often taking part in organized sports races, especially in half marathons (21.1 km). The great interest of amateur runners is reflected by many half marathons organized in Poland. The aim of the study was to determine and evaluate risk factors of organizing long-distance runs (half marathons). It consisted in the survey attended by the organizers of ten large half marathons held in 2017-2018 in Poland. Ten experts carried out multi-stage identification of risk factors in the organization of running events with the use of the Delphi method. 21 representatives of the organizers conducted risk assessment. In addition, alpha Cronbach statistics was used to determine the reliability of the research tool. As a part of the analysis of the results, the factor analysis of the most important risks was performed. In the context of the effect and probability of a given factor the following risks dominated: financing of marathons, organizational issues (including the start date), acceptance of the event by the local community, organization of the finish line, start delay, cyber security, personal data disclosure and time measurement problems. The results of the risk assessment were presented to the participants of the survey. Consequently, they assessed them and placed emphasis on the actual risks that must be taken into account as a priority in the organization of running events. Professional risk management based on the risk factors database created on the basis of the research most often leads to the highest possible level of safety and satisfaction of all interested parties (mainly: participants, organizers, the local community).