Sport tourism on the islands: The impact of an international mega golf event

Islands may differ economically and socially from mainland areas and often suffer problems of insularity and vulnerability. However, they also experience certain benefits from their geographically different location, unique cultures, and international investment. In recent times, a number of successful international sporting events have been organised as a means of supporting an island's sustainable development. These sporting events have been based on close cooperation between the public and the international private sector in the areas of strategic planning and marketing. This paper will discuss a successful strategic sports marketing event that was held on Jeju Island, Korea - the US Professional Golf Association (PGA) Tour event, which was entitled, 'Korea Golf Championship'. First, the paper will discuss the major characteristics of islands that encourage sport tourism development. Second, research studies supporting sports tourism will be reviewed from a golf tourism perspective as a strategic niche market for island development. Third, an overall analysis will be conducted of this event that will cover all aspects in terms of the success or failure of the first US PGA tour that was held outside the United States of America