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Social Return on Investment (SROI) Evaluation Report of TianZhong Marathon

“The wave of road running events in Taiwan began about a decade ago, and following this trend, the TianZhong Marathon was established around the same time. By its third year, it had grown to a ten-thousand-participant event and has remained a highly anticipated marathon, attracting over 30,000 registrants annually. It is one of Taiwan’s four major marathons. Unique among the major marathons, the TianZhong Marathon focuses more on the lively, small-town festival atmosphere than on personal achievements. This distinctive positioning raises curiosity about its broader impact beyond health benefits. The town of TianZhong, typically relaxed and leisurely paced, must mobilize its entire population to accommodate the event’s participants, posing questions about potential stress and negative impacts on residents. Despite over ten years of the event, clear data on its impact on stakeholders has been lacking

This assessment will focus on the 2022 TianZhong Marathon, evaluating its social impact from August 1, 2022, to August 1, 2023, using the SROI methodology. Primary stakeholders include participants, sponsors, local businesses, government units, and residents involved in the event. Sponsors benefit from enhanced brand image and corporate cohesion. Participants enjoy immense satisfaction, confidence, and social interaction. Accommodation providers see economic benefits, while government units gain public recognition. According to this study, every NT$1 invested in the TianZhong Marathon generates approximately NT$4.27 in social value. By analyzing stakeholder feedback and data, we provide recommendations to optimize the event and maximize benefits for all stakeholders.”