IELTS Writing task 2: Some people think that large international sporting events only brings drawbacks, and that it is not worth hosting them

Topic:

Some people think that large international sporting events only brings drawbacks, and that it is not worth hosting them. Do you agree or disagree?

Topic analysis:

- What type of essay is it? - Agree/disagree

- What is the main issue? - Key words: sport

- What are the sub issues? - Micro key words: large international sporting events, drawbacks, not worth hosting

- What instruction are you given? - Instruction words: agree or disagree – give personal view

Answer:

There are different opinions about the pros and cons of large international sporting events. While some people think that they are not worth hosting because of many drawbacks, I believe the advantages of these events totally outweigh the disadvantages and hosting them is beneficial to both the host country and the people.

Many people are against international sporting events because they consider the costs are too much in comparison with what they receive from them. To host such large events, the host country must invest in infrastructure – stadiums, roads, accommodation and other facilities – while the revenues from tourism and services are uncertain. Greece is an example of a country suffering from great deficit after a spectacular sporting festival: they fell into financial crisis not long after the Olympic Games in 2004 and had to request for financial assistance from the European Union. From the perspective of sport fans, travelling to the host locality, which may be far from their home country, to attend an international sporting event, means that they need to pay not only for tickets, but also transportation, hotel, food and various miscellaneous expenses. Many believe that their money should be used on profitable activities rather than wasted on this kind of entertainment.

Although the above mentioned arguments are understandable, I believe international sporting events bring about more benefits than drawbacks. First, if calculated correctly, the host country can promote the economy with revenues from the event and other activities associating with it while spending the minimum amount of public budget. The United States only invested in basic infrastructure to meet the requirements of the Olympic Games 2002 and they generated multiple times the amount they spent through increased tourism and services. Second, for sport fans, travelling abroad to the event gives them the chance to enjoy the atmosphere of the event, and get know the life and culture of the host community. Besides, they can make friends and set up relationships with people from around the world who share their love for sports. People can never have this experience if they do not come to the host country in person, so spending money on this is totally worthy.

In conclusion, although large international sporting events have some drawbacks, they are still worth hosting because of many benefits that they bring to both the host countries and the people attending the events.

(394 words)

Comment:

This essay is 393 words long, and I know that it is too long for 40 minutes. I am thinking of making a shorter version for it but still keeping all the details inside.