Conceptualization of perceived risk from the participant perspective in trail running events

A research article co-authored by CTR Visiting Fellow, Dr. Eiji Ito has been published in International Journal of Sport and Health Science.

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Title

Conceptualization of perceived risk from the participant perspective in trail running events

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Authors

Shiro Yamaguchi, Faculty of Human and Social Sciences, University of Marketing and Distribution Sciences / Department of Movement and Sport Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Brussel

Eiji Ito, School of Health and Sport Sciences, Chukyo University / Center for Tourism Research, Wakayama University

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Source

International Journal of Sport and Health Science, 2021

DOI:?https://doi.org/10.5432/ijshs.202125

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Abstract

This study conceptualizes the perceived risk of participating in trail running events from a trail runner¡¯s perspective. To this end, we modified the Twenty Statements Test, asking: ¡°What is the risk?¡± Respondents were required to respond with 10 statements beginning with ¡°The risk is.¡± Relevant data were obtained from online panels (N = 93) registered with an internet research firm. The results of the thematic analysis revealed six participation-based risks (namely, physical, psychological, financial, interpersonal, equipment, and structural risk) and four natural risks (unexpected, environmental, weather, and time risk). These perceived risks were discussed in the light of the perspectives of participants vs. the perspective of event organizers, and the risks in the context of event vs. non-event. The conceptualization of perceived risk among trail runners was clarified, contributing to the literature on risk management and outdoor sport. The study¡¯s findings indicate that trail running event organizers should take into account participants¡¯ perceived risks to improve risk management in participatory sporting events.

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Keywords

Risk management, Trail runners, Thematic analysis, Event management, Japan