Can you help share the love of tri?

Its federation race licence being revoked was the final straw as another UK events company folded recently, and while it was disputed where the blame lay, what didn’t seem in question was that some of the organising had become frayed at the edges.

A less-than-sympathetic commenter issued a line that stuck with me: ‘Clubs grow the sport, event companies grow their bank balance.’

While I don’t entirely agree with the statement – and believe it’s possible to do both – I understood the sentiment.

No-refund cancellations aren’t going to earn for-profit entities much sympathy, no matter the level of sunk costs.

But events are – and will remain – a critical part of the triathlon ecosystem; validation of our never-ending quest to master its three disciplines, and, hopefully, bring a lot of fun to boot.

How to encourage new people to the sport

While I’m not convinced triathlon’s vital signs should be judged purely by numbers of entrants, the sport needs its races to thrive, from local club-organised sprints through to international Ironmans. 

From this year your choices will include the Helvellyn Triathlon in Cumbria under new ownership.

Already with an established reputation, its recent purchase by the Brownlee Foundation will mean that future profits are invested into introducing more children to tri – and by definition, helping sustain the future of triathlon. 

It’s not a bad blueprint to follow, and brings sharper focus to where our entry money is headed when we sign-up for events.

So, while they might not be able to match the halo effect given by Olympic champion siblings [Alistair and Jonny Brownlee], it’s the reason low-cost club-run events should be held in similar high esteem: they also break down barriers to encourage new people into the sport. 

Join your local tri club

Sticking with clubs, more recently I’ve started to better appreciate the all-around value they deliver. I’ve had more time to participate in my local tri club sessions, take guidance, and particularly inspiration from other members – and not from the obvious source of the fastest and fittest.

It’s given me enjoyment and accountability and I’ve seen first-hand how clubs provide a welcoming environment to not just bring more people of all ages into swim, bike and run, but encourage more physical activity generally. 

If triathlon is to flourish long-term its grassroots hold the key, and given that doesn’t happen without commitment, it also made me question my own contribution.

So, to prove it is more than just words, and in an attempt to hold myself accountable, I’ve drawn up my own five-point list for the year ahead: 

• Complete a coaching or leadership qualification to support established coaches in running sessions
• Volunteer at at least one event in 2024
• Sign up for an event and take part, preferably alongside team-mates from the local club
• Encourage at least one newcomer to take part in a taster club session
• Buy from brands who have their heart in the sport

I’m sure you can think of others, and you’re welcome to join me. After all, the more you get involved, the more we’ll get involved, and that can only be a good thing for the sport and our health in general.

Top illustration: Daniel Seex