Sports facilities in local development (Example of Hesarek Ski Resort)

Although Bingöl is a city with many important regions in terms of tourism, it has not made sufficient progress in terms of development yet. On the other hand, it is foreseen that the activities of sports facilities can play a significant role in the local development process of Bingöl province. In this context, the aim of the research is to examine the impact of Hesarek Ski Resort, which was opened in Bingöl province in 2016, on the local development process of Bingöl province. In the study, phenomenon science (phenomenology) approach, which is one of the qualitative research techniques, was adopted. A total of 16 participants, including 4 ski trainers, 4 ski athletes, 2 senior public managers, 3 public institution managers, and 3 artisans, were included in the study group of the research. In the study, a semi-structured interview form consisting of 28 questions prepared by the researcher was used as a data collection tool. Content analysis of the obtained data were carried out by transferring to Nvivo 10 program. In the analysis of the research data, two sub-themes emerged under the main theme "Hesarek Ski Resort": "Local Development relationship" and "facility size". As a result of analyzing these themes, it was found that Hesarek Ski Resort has a positive impact on Bingöl province in social, economic, cultural, educational and sporting terms. However, in the technical characteristics category of the facility size sub-theme, findings were obtained as to the deficiencies in accommodation, food and drink services. According to the results obtained, it can be said that the Hesarek Ski Resort in Bingöl province has a significant potential; it accelerates the local development process and makes important contributions to the development of the province and can do more; thus, investments in the resort should be increased and activities diversified by eliminating deficiencies.