The survey and analyses of effective factors of attracting sport tourists to Mazandaran Province with emphasis on sport tourism marketing

The purpose of this study was prioritize and effect of attractive fators of sport tourists to the Mazandaran province with emphasis on sport tourism marketing. This study was based on a descriptive-survey method and was a type of field study. The tool used to collect data was a researcher-made questionnaire which its reliability was obtained by Cronbach`s alpha 86%. The questionnaire was consisted of components (management & planning, socio-cultural, infrastructures, natural and historical attractions) that designed according to the Likert 5-point scale. The statistical population included sport management professors, experts and heads of sport associations from Physical Education administration and the tourism experts of the Mazandaran province, of which 95 individuals were selected randomly. For inferential analysis of data from the one-variable t test and the Friedman test was used at a significance level of ≥ α 0,05. The research findings showed that the average of attraction factors for infrastructures, natural and historical attractions, management & planning and socio-cultural was larger than average level(3). hence in respondents` view these factors were important in order of preference in terms of attracting tourists And the infrastructure factors was more important than other factors. Of course, the possibility for attracting sport tourists is achievable when all of these fundemental components are well considered And this is not possible without any change in the attitude of officials and all those who are involved in sport and tourism sector.