Hierarchical multi-criteria analysis for the selection of a triathlon

Sports activities have an increasingly large impact in different fields: economy, tourism, environment, applied technology, social, culture, etc. This study analyses the most important criteria that triathletes take into account when choosing a triathlon event in Spain. The methodology used was Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), which quantifies the weighting of each criterion and sub-criterion in a survey. The survey was drawn up using 14 triathlete experts and was completed by 95 triathlon participants. The results show that the internal aspects associated with the development of the triathlon event, together with the proximity to the athlete's home, the layout and signage of the circuits and value for money, are the most important factors when choosing a triathlon event.