Long-Term Effects of Triathlon Events on the Integration of Cultural and Tourism Development in Spanish Coastal Cities

Abstract

This paper explores the long-term impacts of triathlon events on the integration of cultural and tourism development in Spanish coastal cities. Positioned at the crossroads of sport, place branding, and sustainable tourism, triathlons are shown to catalyze diverse forms of local regeneration. Drawing on case studies from cities such as Calella, Salou, and Girona, the study demonstrates how these endurance events extend tourist stay duration, increase per capita visitor spending, and promote high return rates, especially during off-peak seasons. Through spatial redistribution of tourist flows and the incorporation of local cultural assets, triathlons contribute to the rebranding of traditional beach resorts into wellness-oriented and culturally enriched destinations. The paper highlights how triathlon events foster stakeholder engagement, entrepreneurial innovation, and civic participation, generating long-term socioeconomic value beyond the event itself. Spatial analysis, stakeholder surveys, and comparative economic assessments support the conclusion that triathlon events are effective tools for achieving temporal diversification, rural inclusion, and destination sustainability. This interdisciplinary inquiry underscores the potential of sport tourism to serve as a lever for integrated and resilient coastal development.