An Empirical Study on the Impact of Xiamen Institute of Technology Campus Marathon on the Local Economy: An Analysis Based on the Perspective of Big Data

This study aims to evaluate the direct, indirect, and induced economic impacts of the campus marathon hosted by Xiamen Institute of Technology (XIT), and to explore the conceptual application of big data methodologies in assessing the economic effects of small-scale, localized sports events. With the growing popularity of marathons both in China and globally, their role in enhancing public health and stimulating economic development has become increasingly evident. Using the 2024 XIT Campus Marathon as a case study, this research analyzes its influence on key local sectors, including tourism, hospitality, retail, and dining. Findings suggest that despite the modest scale of the campus marathon, it has generated measurable economic stimulus in the surrounding community and contributed to the broader marathon economy in Xiamen by promoting a culture of sports and urban vitality. The study proposes a framework that integrates traditional economic impact evaluation models with the analytical potential of big data, offering a methodological foundation for future real-time and granular assessments. The results provide actionable policy suggestions for both XIT and the Xiamen municipal government to maximize the economic and social value of campus-level sports events.