Let’s accept it. It is often easy to find reasons not to host a major sporting event, too much budget required, more important priorities. The list of excuses go on and on. But, a major sporting event can create enthusiasm and excitement for such an event. It can help promote uptake of sport which has lasting benefits for the city and the community–economics, health, tourism and investments wise.
Now, as Best Ironman Host, it’s a recognition Davao City truly deserves.
The investment of the city government and its people in bringing to Davao City a prestigious sports event that has captured the attention of the world is indeed more than worth it. It’s been said before, Davao City is just a sports event away from booming into a major events destination in the country, if not the world. With the successful staging of the Ironman 70.3 race in two consecutive years, Davao is finally getting the attention it deserves.
Being the Best Ironman Host is not an ordinary recognition considering the cities that mount such events worldwide. With two Ironman 70.3s tucked in its belt, Davao City has come of its own in this elite class that has cities in Australia, Japan, Germany, United States and New Zealand, among others.
The advantages of hosting major sporting events include raising the profile of the city as a destination not only for sports but also for tourism, business and trade. It is also a long-term investment in the way that sports infrastructures, training and capabilities are developed and harnessed, and the short term benefits of revenues from the hosting of the event.
Now that Davao City has proven its capabilities in this particular event, then it can venture into other possible big ticket events which may be sustainable in the long run.
