A study on participant satisfaction and improvement strategies for marathon events in Taiwan

Since 2008, road running and marathon events in Taiwan have flourished. Although the COVID-19 pandemic temporarily reduced events, activities have gradually resumed, and marathons continue to attract many participants. This study explores participants' motivations and satisfaction with Taiwan's major marathons. Using surveys, it analyzes satisfaction and dissatisfaction with event services. Results show low satisfaction with registration and post-event services, especially payment systems, refund processes, and post-race recovery services. Pre-race services, such as accommodation and dining, scored lower, while racecourse design and traffic control require improvement. Timing services and aid stations received higher ratings, but finish-line shuttles and toilets along the route remain insufficient. The study suggests optimizing registration platforms, adding payment options, improving racecourse design, and strengthening post-race services. Enhancing volunteer training and providing timely event updates are also emphasized.