#Triathlon USAT is looking for a High Performance General Manager

The USA Triathlon is looking for a High Performance General Manager to lead all aspects of the organization’s Olympic and Paralympic High Performance Program, including the National Team, Elite Development (Collegiate Recruitment Program, U23, Junior) and Talent Identification (TID) programs. The High Performance General Manager reports directly to the CEO and is a member of the executive management team. The primary objectives of the position are to produce top of the podium performances at World Championships and major games and to develop a strong, sustainable pipeline through which the next generation of champions will be produced.  The General Manager is required to travel extensively in support of these objectives. This position works directly with USA Triathlon staff, board, coaches, athletes and the International Triathlon Union and the United States Olympic Committee to advance the organization’s mission and goals. The General Manager plans, administers, and directs the High Performance Program by performing the following duties personally or through subordinate supervisors and direct reporting employees. General Duties and Responsibilities: Departmental Oversight (Olympic and Paralympic) Lead the creation and delivery of the quadrennial High Performance Plan.  Oversee the ongoing facilitation of this plan including the annual review process to incorporate strategic updates. Foster a culture that demands strict adherence to anti-doping regulations and emphasizes the pursuit of excellence. Ensure strict compliance to USA Triathlon and United States Olympic Committee SafeSport policies. Direct and hire USA Triathlon employees and contract labor which report to the High Performance General Manager with final approval from the CEO. Plan and coordinate activities of High Performance staff, including management of annual staff objectives, appraisals and scheduling. Create an annual budget based upon long-term planning documents and their needed modifications; authorize program expenditures. Prepare annual operating reports, annual applications for financial assistance and other reports as required. National Team Program (Olympic and Paralympic) Ongoing review and monitoring of National Team performance objectives. Administer all aspects of high performance management including major games, international ITU events and performance camps.  This includes, but is not limited to, performing advance site visits, serving as Team... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2p8p0HQ

#Triathlon ITU and Super League confirm partnership with signing of MOU

ITU and the Super League Triathlon have signed a memorandum of understanding unveiling new partnerships in key areas of the sport, with the overarching shared goal of further building triathlon around the world at many levels including youth development, fan building and audience engagement, and general promotion of the sport on a global scale The MOU, announced this weekend in Moscow during the European Triathlon Union Conference, sets in motion a partnership that will see SLT and the ITU working together on promoting gender equality, clean sport conforming to the WADA code and ITU Anti-Doping Rules, as well as open communication as key pillars of the cooperation. ITU is also committed to provide guidance in rules development of SLT’s new formats. As part of ITU strategic Plan 2018-2021, ITU is reaching agreements with the main Triathlon organisers in the World to facilitate the develop of the sport of triathlon under the common principles of fair, safe and clean Triathlon for All. SLT will recognize ITU as the governing body of the triathlon sport, coordinating with them and the national federations for all SLT events. SLT will also work with ITU to ensure equality in prize money, contracts and participation of male and female athletes. “ITU and Super League have always had common goals to safely and efficiently develop triathlon, nurture new talent and provide world stages for great champions. By working together to reach those ends, we will do so faster and more effectively, using one another’s strengths to herald in an exciting new era of competition. This memo represents an important moment for our sport and athletes, but it is only the beginning of what will be a long and fruitful partnership”, said ITU President and IOC Member, Marisol Casado. The MOU is also designed to ensure that the ITU and Super League calendars are regularly discussed to avoid events clashing, while the alignment of marketing initiatives will serve to extend the reach of both organisations and bring the potential for greater scope in campaigns as well as through their respective platforms. “We are thrilled to be able to work with the governing body of triathlon so early on in Super League Triathlon’s establishment. We look forward to ensuring safe, fair and invigorating Super League events with ITU, and in so doing raise the profile of the sport,” said Michael D’hulst, Super League Triathlon Chief Executive Officer. “The close alignment of ITU and... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2FyM0a0

#Triathlon Murray produces a furious race in Mooloolaba to claim victory

South Africa’s Richard Murray was top seeded leading into today’s race and he certainly didn’t disappoint by motoring home to claim victory in the 2018 Mooloolaba ITU Triathlon World Cup. ITU athlete Max Stapely, currently training in Australia, led the group of nearly 30 men out of the ocean swim, including New Zealand trio Sam Ward, Hayden Wilde and Tayler Reid, Brandon Copeland, Luke Willian and Ryan Bailie from Australia and Canada’s Tyler Mislawchuk, as they hustled through transition and out onto the bike course, consisting of 4 laps of 5km. In the early stages of the race it was Wilde that was showing established form ahead of the massive group of riders which included Willian and Murray, 40-seconds down on the leaders. Murray proved that he was a force to be reckoned with looking to get to the front of the group for a fast transition to run. “There was a lot of looking up and sitting around, a couple of the guys tried to break away. I tried to break away myself, not particularly sure why, but thought it would be good to get a hard ride in today,” said Murray. As the athletes emerged from their second transition there were no doubts that this was going to come down to a wild and frantic running race. Wilde was one of the initial front-runners before Murray and Hauser steamed away from the field to lead. America’s Matthew McElroy produced a reckless run holding onto third place. “It managed to all come together. I was really pushed on this one. “Matt (Hauser) turned the gas on in those final laps,” said Murray. The South African triathlete was determined to make his mark on Mooloolaba this year and produced a victorious golden finish. “That was a lot harder than anticipated. 2nd time on the podium here and now top step,” said Murray. Australian triathlete Hauser, who was crowned Junior World Champion at the 2017 ITU World Triathlon Grand Final in Rotterdam, put Murray to the test on the run. “It was a great hit out today ahead of the Commonwealth Games in April. “I managed to handle myself on the bike and stay tucked into the pack and was able to have a bit of a kick at the end and come home for second place,” said Hauser. Murray’s race in Abu Dhabi last week didn’t go accordingly to plan so today’s win in Mooloolaba stamped confidence as he commences his final preparations for the Commonwealth Games next month. Murray and Hauser will go head to head again in the world class competition of next... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2HjApMI

#Triathlon Jeffcoat crowned with Mooloolaba gold in front of a home crowd

Australia’s Emma Jeffcoat was the one to beat in 2018 ITU Mooloolaba World Cup today. Championed with a home crowd, Jeffcoat dominated today’s race to win gold and step on top of the World Cup podium. With a strong Australian surf background, it was no surprise that Jeffcoat led the field of women out of the 750m ocean swim solo, in favorable conditions, before heading onto the 4-lapped bike course. “That’s racing, you’ve got to play to the conditions and I am lucky to have a surf background that let me get that advantage to set up for a good race,” said Jeffcoat. The strong group of swimmers to follow out of the water included Canada’s Amelie Kretz, Australians Charlotte McShane, Natalie Van Coevorden, America’s Kirsten Kasper and New Zealanders Nicole Van Der Kaay and Elise Salt.   It was a slight battle for chief position out on the technical 20km bike leg with Kasper leading in the early stage, Jeffcoat sitting tight on second wheel and Van Der Kaay and Italy’s Angelica Olmo putting the pressure on to stay with the leaders. On the second lap Van Coevordon took control, Kasper was in pursuit while McShane, Salt and Kretz were 15-seconds down from the front group and by the final lap this gap had extended to 45-seconds. Jeffcoat made a remarkable impact on the bike, put the pedal down to charge into transition as race leader. The Aussie showed no signs of slowing down as she produced a slick transition to hit the pavement with a strong lead for the 5km run in Mooloolaba. On the final lap of the run course Jeffcoat looked like a front-runner ready to strike as she stormed across the finish line to be crowned race champion. “It’s an awesome result. I just focus on process and when my process is executed on I get my outcome,” Jeffcoat proudly said. Kasper, a run specialist, wasn’t letting Jeffcoat out of sight however didn’t quite have the turnover to play catch and claimed the bronze medal today. “Emma was the one to beat today. She was full on right from the start. I just tried to give it my all. It’s not like me to fall off that early but coming off Abu Dhabi I can’t complain with that result,” said Kasper. It was Olmo from Italy who produced an impressive performance to round out today’s podium with a bronze finish.  “First podium, so happy. I worked really hard this Winter and I wanted to achieve a result like this so I am really surprised but happy,” Olmo said. Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2Fv4Uyw

#Triathlon Magog added to the 2018 ITU Paratriathlon World Cup circuit

ITU is pleased to announce the addition of Magog (Canada) to the 2018 Paratriathlon World Cup calendar. The race will be celebrated together with the existing ITU event on 14th July 2018. “We are extremely proud to add one more race to our Paratriathlon calendar for this season. With a total of eight Para World Cup races, and three World Paratriathlon Series, our athletes will have plenty of opportunities to shine and develop”, said ITU President and IOC Member, Marisol Casado. The cancellation of the New Orleans Paratriathlon World Cup event limited the number of Paratriathlon races in the Americas to one, Sarasota PWC in October, so since this cancellation ITU has been working with National Federations and organizing committees to try to add more races to the 2018 calendar, especially in that region. Magog hosted a Para World Cup in 2017, and with that experience, we are confident that they can host the event in 2018 successfully. ITU wants to thank Triathlon Canada for their help on this matter. In 2018, the Paratriathlon calendar will be one of the largest ever, with three World Paratriathlon Series taking place as well. The season will start in Yokohama, along with the WTS event, and then will head to Iseo (Italy) for the first time ever, a World Paratriathlon Series event, after organising multiple paratriathlon races during the last decade. Edmonton will follow and then onto close the season at the Gold Coast World Championships. The Paratriathlon World Cup calendar includes this season eight stops, with the first event taking place in Devonport (Australia) last February, to then move to Aguilas (Spain), Eton Dorney (UK), Besancon (France), Magog (Canada), Lausanne (Switzerland), Sarasota (USA) and Funchal (Portugal). Classification for Visually Impaired athletes has also been confirmed at the Eton Dorney PWC for Saturday 26th May 2018. Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2FtiVNi

#Triathlon Elite presser ahead Mooloolaba World Cup

The 2018 ITU World Cup is back on the coastline of Mooloolaba this weekend and athletes are fired up to race. With many athletes looking for a strong test, ahead of next month’s Commonwealth Games, the competition among the field is expected to be tough from the start. Athletes are also getting a feel for the Queensland landscape ahead of the Grand Final on the Gold Coast later this year. Richard Murray (RSA) On his previous memories of Mooloolaba: “Good memories here but I remember it being a tough course. There’s a strong field here with a lot of the younger guys moving through.” On the season ahead: “With the preparation moving towards the Commonwealth Games the plan is to head over to Wanaka, New Zealand, for a training camp. The preparation is going well and my body is in good shape so it should be a good race here this weekend.There’s a lot of travel this year compared to other years, I will be coming back to Australia 3 times this year. It’s a great place to race and train.” Vanessa Fernandes (POR) On her connection with Mooloolaba: “I have a great connection with Mooloolaba. I have great thoughts about this World Cup and it’s a pleasure to be here again. I decided to come over to Australia for a while to train and compete in this World Cup.It’s a new start. Everything you do in life you need to be having fun otherwise why would you be doing it.” On tomorrow’s race plan: “I think tomorrow we need to be present in the moment and out our own energy in that moment so tomorrow I will be doing that – and to enjoy the race. When I am on the bike tomorrow, I know what I will need to do. Today is today and tomorrow is tomorrow. I know it will be a tough race across the swim, bike and run. Tomorrow I will feel how I will be and make the move when I need to.” Luke Willian (AUS) Expectations of the defending champion: “It was a great start for the year to win here last year. I’ve probably got a couple of weeks before I am flying and racing at top speed.” On the men’s field and his priority for 2018: “It’s a good field here and will be a good chance to test the legs and see where I am at and what else I have to do before the Commonwealth Games.” Charlotte McShane (AUS) On being back in Mooloolaba: “I jumped at the opportunity to race here and have another race in Australia. I wanted the opportunity to get some tough competition under my belt and Mooloolaba fits in perfectly with my preparation for the... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2HhgePu

#Triathlon Celebrating the Women that Inspire Triathlon

Happy International Women’s Day! On March 8 the world recognizes all women across the globe for their accomplishments, dreams and successes. However, here within ITU we like to honour amazing women every single day of the year. But in celebration of the holiday we wanted to show some extra love and paid tribute to all of the strong, fierce, tough, talented and POWERFUL WOMEN in triathlon and in sport that inspire us to do and be better. ITU is also proud to be one of the leading International Federations in the Olympic movement in the fight for gender equality such as our continued promise for equal prize money and representation for men and women in our competitions. So, we hope that you take a moment to celebrate #IWD2018 with us and read just a couple stories of women in triathlon from the past and present that are true examples of female role models. Elizabeth Bravo (ECU) In 2016 Bravo qualified for the 2016 Rio De Janeiro Olympic Games and competed in her second-career Olympic Games as the only Ecuadorian triathlete to ever do so. But what was remarkable about her story was the fact that she accomplished all of this after recently giving birth to her first child. In January 2016, Bravo gave birth to her son and after only a few months she started competing at the elite international level. She then qualified for her second Olympic Games (first one being the 2012 London Games) and then in August raced in Rio. In October 2017, Bravo won her first ITU World Cup race in Salinas in her home nation, where she celebrated at the finish line with her son in her arms. Bravo is an exceptional example of all women athletes who are mothers and the strength they show not only for themselves, but for their families. Gwen Jorgensen (USA) Jorgensen will go down as one of the top female triathletes in history. She accomplished so many feats and set so many records in the sport that her performances you had to watch for yourself to believe it. She is a two-time ITU World Champion, winning in 2014 and 2015 and was the gold medallist at the 2016 Rio de Janerio Olympic Games. During her career she collected 17 WTS golds and 21 WTS podiums. From 2014-2015 she tallied up a 12-race winning streak, which aided in her undefeated 2015 season that led to her second World Championship crown. Her victories were unparalleled, especially when it came to the run. She was unstoppable on the run, once coming back to win after being down by 94 seconds (2016 WTS Leeds). After... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2FyClUe

#Triathlon Pushing for a progressive example of gender balance in sports

On March 8, the International Women’s Day, ITU wants to celebrate and congratulate all the incredible women we have racing, coaching, officiating and leading our sport, triathlon. For us it is a great honor, as well as a pleasure, to be members of a family, the triathlon family, that provides a very progressive example of gender balance in sports. We have one of the very few sports in which, since the very beginning, men and women compete in the same distances, and prices are always the same for both male and female winners.  Since 2004, the number of women competing in ITU races all around the world is over 35% of the total competitors, and the numbers keep growing year by year. We do have countries in which the number of female elite athletes is bigger than male, such as Bermuda (59% of women) or Canada and USA, where women are 45% of the elite triathletes. Some other of our countries with higher numbers of elite triathletes have also grown the female presence on their sport, such as New Zealand (42%), Japan (42%), Russia (40%) or Australia (38%). Although those are great numbers of which we are extremely proud, there is still room to improvement, and we are working with many countries to promote women in our sport and organizing talent camps and development camps to continuously increase those numbers. “But is not only a matter of gender balance in our athletes. Equal opportunities for men and women are part of the DNA of our sport and of our constitution. ITU’s Table Officers are made up of 60% women, with the ITU President and two Vice Presidents all women. Additionally, the ITU Executive Board is nearly half women. But more importantly, currently there are more than ten National Federations that have a female as President. We also have one of our Board Members, Dr. Debbie Alexander, who has just been elected member of the IPC Board. That means that women are taking that step forward to have access to management positions within the sport world. We do have equal representation also in the Athletes commission, presided by a female former athlete, and more and more women are taking the step forward to participate in technical official courses or coaching courses, to get involved in some other ways in our sport”, said ITU President and IOC Member, Marisol Casado. “I have been involved with ITU, first as an athlete and now as chairperson of the athletes’ committee, for the last 15 years and all through that time I have been aware of... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2HgoMpx

#Triathlon 2018 International Women’s Day Gallery of Talented Female Athletes

As one of the leading International Federations in gender equality in sport, we like to think we celebrate female triathletes every single day, but on March 8th we are more than happy to show some extra special love to all the women that inspire us daily. Take a look at this gallery that represents just a small portion of the thousands of female triathletes around the globe that continue to be tougher, stronger and better every single day. Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2FzzsT7

#Triathlon World Cup series travels to Australia for the 2018 Mooloolaba ITU World Cu

For the 16th consecutive year, world’s top triathletes will go to the Sunshine Coast this weekend to participate in the second stop of the ITU World Cup Tour, in Mooloolaba. With athletes focussing on preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Games, the start list for the 2018 ITU Mooloolaba World Cup is packed with potential medallist to shine in Gold Coast in one month. The tough course and incredible spectator support create an electric atmosphere that makes Mooloolaba an athlete favourite race spot. Athletes will have to face a challenging sprint course with a beach start for a 750m swim clockwise in the main Mooloolaba beach. The bike course will consist of four laps on a quite technical and hilly 5 km loop along Mooloolaba Esplanade and Alexandra Parade.  The athletes will then go for a 5km run on an undulating 3 lap course taking in stunning coastal views along the way.   Women’s preview Weoning number one in the Sunshine Coast will be American Kirsten Kasper, who had an impressive start of the season finishing in fourth place in WTS Abu Dhabi only one week ago. “After Abu Dhabi, I relocated to the Gold Coast and I will be based here until the New Plymouth World Cup”, she said. “I’m excited to be in Australia to race and to train for this month. The field for this weekend’s race looks well rounded and there are definitely girls with early season form leading into the Commonwealth Games. I’m happy to have a race under my belt and excited to keep building on that performance”. She will definitely have to keep an aye on the Aussi squad present in Mooloolaba, led by Charlotte McShane and including the bronze medallist in WTS Abu Dhabi, Natalie Van Coevorden, who showed that she is one to watch for in sprint races with hard bike courses, like the one athletes will face in the Sunshine Coast. “I have recovered well post travel from Abu Dhabi and this week has mostly been about getting the body moving again”, said Natalie.  “The high from last weekend is a great overall vibe to have and motivates me more for this weekend’s racing,” she said. Also in great form is Emma Jeffcoat (AUS), who won the Oceania Sprint Championships only three weeks ago in Devonport. The Aussies will have to watch out for the American team, also really strong this year in Mooloolaba. Chelsea Burns has shown a consistency this season on sprint distances, with a 7th place in Cape Town and a 18th in Abu Dhabi, under really challenging... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2oVtUYI

#Triathlon ITU signs development contract with ASTC

ITU is pleased to announce it has signed the Development Grant contract with the Asian Triathlon Confederation (ASTC) for 2018. The budget will be invested in support the strategic development goals of the Asian Triathlon Confederation, especially those regarding young athletes and women. “As they have been doing for the past few years, ASTC’s plan for 2018 is very robust & outlines a great way to use the funds ITU provides to Continental Confederations to develop the sport,” said ITU President & IOC Member Marisol Casado. “ASTC President Justin Park has done a fantastic job leading the Asian Triathlon Confederation, and this plan is predominantly focused on developing talent in athletes and coaches alike, which demonstrates how committed ASTC is with the development necessities of Asian areas.” ASTC President Justin Park presented a plan to use the funds offered by ITU to provide training and educational opportunities to promising young athletes, as well as to the development of coaches and Technical Officials. The plan is also meant to increase the participation of women in the sport on all levels. The agreement includes plans for a talent identification camp in Thailand and camps for women and paratriathletes in Japan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as funds to assist elite athletes and paratriathletes in traveling to races and athlete equipment support. Additionally, ASTC will offer Level 1 and Level 2 coaching courses in India, China, as well as a coach mentorship programme. ASTC also plans to offer a total of eight Level 1 and Level 2 Technical Officials Seminars throughout the continent, as well as assist self-funded Technical Officials in attending specific triathlon events. Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2I7LKkb

#Triathlon Rachel Klamer earns first-career WTS win in Abu Dhabi

Starting off the year making the history books, Rachel Klamer (NED) became the 21st woman to ever win an ITU World Triathlon Series race after her season-opening victory at the 2018 ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi. After a smart and conservative race strategy that brought her through the swim and bike, Klamer gave everything she has on the final lap of the run to earn the gold medal and her first WTS victory of her career. “I am so happy, there was no way I was expecting this. I have to say I was quite scared on the bike because the last few months I have been training on only straight roads and didn’t do any corners. There was a lot of women crashing so I just decided to take it easy, ride hard, but just go easy through the corners. I ended up sitting behind a couple crashes, which wasn’t smart so I had to chase one whole lap to get back to the front pack. But I am happy I stayed on my bike. When we started running I tried to focus on my breathing because normally at the start of the season I often get side stitches. I stayed at the back of the back on the first lap, but on the last lap I thought I would just give it a try,” said Klamer. The silver medal went to Great Britain’s Jessica Learmonth, who added another silver medal to her belt after taking second in Stockholm last year. The medal gives the Brit good standing going into her last month of training before the Commonwealth Games in Gold Coast in April. “With it being the first race I thought, well if I have a bad race at least I have a month until to try and recover for the Commonwealth Games. Likewise, I have always done well here, but we still have a month to go and I have a lot of training to prep for it, but it gives me a bit of confidence and we will see what it brings,” Learmonth said. Third place went to Aussie Natalie Van Coevorden, who earned her first-career WTS medal from a close photo finish at the line. Going into the race, the women’s line up was stacked as eight of the top 10 world ranked athletes were included in the start list to take on the sprint-distance course. Rainy conditions carried on in the desert from the men’s race as the women jumped from the pontoon to start off their 2018 season. The short 750 metre swim was led by Learmonth, making it the ninth time she has been the WTS swim leader. Returning World Champion Flora Duffy and USA’s Summer Cook were trailing right behind. Once onto the bike, a group of 11 women formed, which included Duffy,... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2FeABiK

#Triathlon Henri Schoeman collects first gold of 2018 WTS season in Abu Dhabi

The 2018 World Triathlon Season has officially begun and its first-collected gold medal went to South Africa’s Henri Schoeman as he claimed victory at the 2018 ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi. Crossing the finish line to collet the tape after leading out of the swim, bike and run, the Abu Dhabi gold was only the second WTS win of Schoeman’s career. And despite the unusual desert rain that caused some slickness out on the bike course for many athletes, Schoeman managed to come out on top and become only the second man in WTS history to win the race after leading in all three disciplines from start to finish. “To be honest, I am just so happy there really is no words to explain. It has been a tough year since the Olympics and it just feels so good to have a statement. I just tried to play it safe out there. I found myself in front on the bike and before I knew it I had a gap and the gap grew. To just be honest I was having fun out there, I was telling myself that if they catch me on the run, well whatever because I had fun on the bike and I was safe.” Schoeman said. “Mario is a fantastic runner, so I was running scared. But my fitness is there and it is good to have a race like this, it told me I am in great form as the Commonwealth Games is my next race. I am so thrilled, the last time I was on the top step was in Cozumel in 2016 and I am so glad I did it in such a great way.” Earning the silver medal was Spaniard Mario Mola, who won in Abu Dhabi in 2015 and 2016. While the bronze went to Vincent Luis (FRA), who repeated his third place position from 2017. Mola said, “I am happy with how the race went. It was really slippery, so just to make it into transition without a crash I think it was a completion. I am very happy, I gave 100%. I managed to get ahead in the bike and made time up on the run, but Henri was up there so congratulations to him. I didn’t give up until I saw him on the blue carpet already celebrating. But I tried and I will fight for the next one.” Abu Dhabi is a desert city, but rain welcomed the elite men for the first WTS race of the 2018 season. With a blow of the horn the elite men jumped off the pontoon to start the sprint-distance race. Only 750 meteres to complete in the swim and by the first buoy it was Schoeman who had earned the edge. Schoeman was first out of the water, while Richard Varga (SVK) and Jonathan Brownlee (GBR) trailing right behind. Getting through the first transition with ease, the... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2HVcmEG

#Triathlon ITU renews Global Partnership with NTT for three more years

ITU is pleased to announce it has renewed the contract with the NTT Group to become a global partner of both ITU and the ITU World Triathlon Series from 2018 until 2020. NTT, who joined the ITU family as a global partner in 2016, will continue to serve as ITU’s exclusive communications and systems integration partner. As part of their strategy leading up to the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, NTT also will acquire rights at various triathlon events in Japan, Asia and worldwide. “It has been a real pleasure working with a company like NTT for the last few years, and I’m convinced that keeping this relationship moving forward will be excellent for both organisations,” said ITU President and IOC Member Marisol Casado. “NTT has a proven history of delivering value to clients to the highest standards, which is also one of our main goals at ITU. This great cooperation will help us in our mission to make triathlon accessible to everyone by providing state of the art technological services to athletes, fans and spectators alike. And I want to extend our gratitude to the Japanese Triathlon Union, whose support has been vital for this lasting agreement in the pursuit of growing the sport not only in Japan but globally”, she said. Brokered jointly by ITU and its Japanese National Federation, the Japan Triathlon Union (JTU), the deal extends the partnership so that NTT Group will be the global partner on all ITU’s World Triathlon Series, which this year comprises eight events. Also, NTT Group will showcase its products and services to a global audience of sport fans thanks to the partnership with the top-tier series of races for ITU, the World Triathlon Series. NTT will be the exclusive communications and systems integration partner at all ITU World Triathlon Series races in 2018, and the NTT Group will look to develop the partnership towards 2020 and beyond in an effort to improve the athlete and fan experiences at ITU events worldwide. In 2015, the NTT Group were appointed as the first Gold Partner of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games to serve as the official telecommunications services partner of the organising committee. Triathlon is one of the fastest growing Olympic sports worldwide. The ITU World Triathlon Series in 2018 will consist of eight events across the world, attracting over 40,000 participants – among them the top elite triathletes of the world, and most of the Olympic... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2HSBqMy

#Triathlon ASICS to become Global Partner of ITU

ITU is pleased to announce that it has concluded a multiple year global agreement with ASICS for them to become a Global Development Partner of ITU. The contract took effect March 1, 2018. This contract was made possible by ITU’s confidence in ASICS’ strong commitment to promote and develop triathlon globally. ITU has created a global development programme setting out the goals that will impact all areas of the sport around the world over the coming years. The ITU 2018-2021 strategic plan takes a step forward with the new global partnership with ASICS, which provides essential support to the ITU development programme both financially and in terms of sporting equipment. Among the programme’s key areas of focus are greater empowerment of national federations, helping them to achieve their goals with greater self-sufficiency, and assisting new and emerging federations to establish themselves on the world stage. “ITU is delighted to welcome ASICS as the new naming global partner in triathlon development as we continue to grow our sport around the world across the Tokyo 2020 Olympic cycle and beyond,” said ITU President and IOC Member Marisol Casado. “The comprehensive 2018-2021 strategic development plan is designed to maintain the current upward trajectory of the sport of triathlon and this partnership allows us to reach further than ever in that quest.” “We are thrilled to be able to support the ITU as a Global Development Partner.” said Motoi Oyama, Chairman, President & CEO of ASICS Corporation. “We at ASICS are committed to improving lives through sport by helping athletes around the world get moving and feel the benefits of being stronger, happier and sharper everyday.” In regions where triathlon has yet to establish itself, ITU is making concerted efforts to strengthen the national federations, provide strategic leadership and promote the sport at all levels. In the areas where triathlon is already strong, ITU will consolidate existing programmes and ensure that everything necessary is in place to allow the national federations to continue unearthing new talent and providing the conditions and performance equipment for them to thrive. Building on that solid foundation, competition bidding and hosting, the development of new talent as well as coaching, performance, technical and administrative personnel and systems can all flourish under the global leadership of ITU. Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2oHtsgH

#Triathlon Athletes chatter ahead of #WTSAbuDhabi

More than 100 elite athletes will kick off the WTS season this Friday in 2018 ITU World Triathlon Abu Dhabi. In one of the most thrilling races in ITU history, with eight out of the top 10 male athletes and nine of the best 10 women triathletes from last year lining-up in the Yas Marina circuit. To get the season underway the first WTS press conference was held, so let’s hear what some of the stars of the race have to say about it: Vicky Holland (GBR) On her victory in Cape Town World Cup after returning from an injury: “Cape Town was my first race in nine months so I was a little bit worried, but it was very nice to be back racing, and especially with a victory.” On her feelings at the beginning of the season: “This is the perfect place to start the season, with most of the top athletes being here. Probably it has something to do with the Commonwealth Games coming soon. It will definitely be the place to test ourselves before that.” Kristian Blummenfelt (NOR) On his season in 2017. “It was great last year, especially last part of the season. I want to start 2018 the way I finished last year.” On his thoughts on the course. “I’ve been in Abu Dhabi twice, I have raced both downtown and last year here in the Yas Marina circuit, and I really lsetupis set up.” On training for this season. “I’ve been on the elite field for four years now, and I’ve been able to keep the momentum and stay injury free. The training during this winter has been really good so I hope to start the season alright.” Andrea Hewitt.(NZL) On her inspiring victory in Abu Dhabi last year. “I’ve been in Abu Dhabi a few times, but definitely, last year was very special. I don’t feel the extra pressure but It’s a little bit different this year as I’m involved in a few activities here since last Monday. I was helping and training with some kids and young triathletes from the Middle East, and it is really great to be supporting also the age group races.” On her role promoting the development of triathlon in the Middle East. “It is really great to be able to support those kids, more than 500 kids will do the kids triathlon here, and being a role model for them. Makes me think about when I did my first ever triathlon, back in 2005.” Mario Mola (ESP) On returning to Abu Dhabi after missing this race last year. “I really like this place, I love to race here and I really want to try this circuit. I have been training really well this winter to prepare for this race, and I’m really excited... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2t2R8BE

#Triathlon ITU announces more classification opportunities for 2018

ITU is pleased to further announce the classification opportunities in 2018 for athletes at ITU events: St.Kilda OTU Paratriathlon Continental Championships 13 January 2018 (Done) Sarasota CAMTRI Paratriathlon American Championships: 9 March 2018 Águilas ITU Paratriathlon World Cup 4-5 May 2018 Yokohama ITU World Paratriathlon Series 10-11 May 2018 Tartu ETU Paratriathlon Continental Championships 17-18 July 2018 Gold Coast ITU Paratriathlon World Championships 12-14 September 2018 (Classification for both PI and VI –physical/visual impairments) Additional opportunities for physical impairments may be added as soon as confirmed with the Organizers and for the ATU and ASTC Continental Championships depending on the classification needs for the entered athletes. For Visual Impairments, ITU will host an opportunity in Gold Coast as described above and is currently working on another location in Europe. CLASSIFICATION SEMINARS IN 2018 There will be a classification seminar hosted by the Colombian Triathlon Federation and Colombian Paralympic Committee in San Andrés Islas – Colombia on 10-11 April 2018. For more information please contact eric.angstadt@triathlon.org Please continue checking the ITU Paratriathlon calendar, as the event calendar is subject to changes. Click here for more information on paratriathlon. Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2EZDctI

#Triathlon Top ranked athletes to kick off the WTS season with a sprint race in Abu Dhabi

The superstars of elite triathlon are just days away from competing in what is set to be one of the most thrilling races in ITU history, WTS 2018 season opener in Abi Dhabi taking place this Friday. Sixty-five of the sport’s leading male athletes from 25 countries, including eight of the world’s top 10 ITU ranked athletes, will go head-to-head for the season’s first honours on the iconic Yas Island.   The star-studded line-up will feature double World Champion and 2016 WTS Abu Dhabi winner, Mario Mola, facing his first race of the season the way he likes. With a fast and furious sprint race. “Abu Dhabi is the one date that really stands out in my calendar,” said Mario Mola. “It’s the season opener and the opportunity for triathletes to kick-start their season with a win on what is becoming one of the most exciting races on the WTS circuit. Last year was a real challenge for me with the new course on Yas Island and the competition was extremely high. But I’m hoping for a better result this year as I go for a hat-trick of Abu Dhabi wins. I’m familiar with the course and want to put on an amazing show for all the fantastic spectators that come out to show their support. The quality of triathletes competing this year is truly world-class, you just have to look at those who will be standing side-by-side on the start line and it already fills me with huge amounts of excitement. I can’t wait to get started!”. One of his most direct rivals will be, indeed, British two-time Olympic medallist Jonathan Brownlee, who returns to the WTS competition after finishing last season in sixth place in a year that finished way better than how it started for the younger brother of the Leeds’ superstars.  “Abu Dhabi is an awesome location for the season-opening WTS race - I raced on the Corniche course back in 2015, and am excited to check out the new course on Yas Island. The weather in March in Abu Dhabi will be perfect – a far cry from the conditions we have experienced in the UK this winter”, said the younger Brownlee. But those two won’t be the only ones who will have the world’s eyes set on to. The world-class line up for WTS Abu Dhabi 2018 men’s elite field have recorded a combined total of 282 wins on the ITU World Triathlon Series circuit and shared more than 700 podium places between them – delivering the strongest WTS Abu Dhabi line-up in the history of the event. Mola and Jonny Brownlee will be joined by more world-class... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2owHh2b

#Triathlon Nine of the world’s top female triathletes to start the season in #WTSAbuDhabi

For the fourth consecutive year, Abu Dhabi will find itself the focus of world triathlon attentions as it kicks off the ITU World Triathlon Series season on March 2. To the delight of triathlon fans around the globe, nine of the top ten women in triathlon will line-up in the amazing Yas Marina circuit in one of the most competitive races in ITU history. The world-class field is set to tackle a 750m swim, 20km bike and 5km run on Friday, March 2, to kick off the 2018 season. A season that will feature stops in Bermuda, Yokohama, Leeds, Hamburg, Edmonton and Montreal before wrapping up in September with the Grand Final in the Gold Coast. Not to mention a season that will mark the start of the road to Tokyo 2020 Olympics, with the qualifying period starting in May 2018. Wearing the golden number one in WTS Abu Dhabi will be double World Champion Flora Duffy (BER). After a stunning 2017 season that saw her on top of the WTS podium in six out of nine races, the Bermudian superstar is looking forward to making her debut on the iconic Yas Island course.   “I was disappointed to miss the Abu Dhabi race last year due to an injury,” said Duffy. “I’ve heard a ton of great things about Yas Island course so I can’t wait to tackle it – especially the bike course which looks like it’s really suited to my aggressive style of racing,” said Duffy, who has made a name for herself as one of the strongest cyclists in the field. She will be among some very strong contenders in Abu Dhabi, though, starting with the winner at this same circuit in 2017, Kiwi Andrea Hewitt, whose furious and emotional sprint at the finish line was one of the most memorable moments of last season, followed by another win for the Kiwi in WTS Gold Coast. “I’m delighted to be returning to Abu Dhabi this year, a place that holds some amazing memories for me following my first-place finish last year. The 2017 race was a turning point for me both personally and professionally. To pick up the gold medal, the way I did, it was an overwhelming sense of emotion. That victory would not have been possible, had it not been for the fantastic support I received from family, friends and the triathlon community. I’m looking forward to seeing what this year’s race holds and with a bit of luck, I’ll be on the podium again!”, said the kiwi. Last year’s World Championship runner-up, Aussie Ashleigh Gentle, will also start 2018 in Abu Dhabi, the perfect scenario for her to get ready not only for... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2GIhc6M

#Triathlon ITU Women’s Committee – Promoting Women in Triathlon – Case Study #3

One of the case studies that the Women’s Committee wants to bring some attention to is the growth of the female presence in triathlon in Trinidad & Tobago during the last years. Between 2013-2017, female participation in the sport has increased by 83%.  The growth of women in leadership roles within the sport is also encouraging.  Today, 57% of the TTTF executive committee is female with 43% being male. Additionally, there is marked increase in the number of female coaches. When the sport started in Trinidad & Tobago, back in the 1980’s, there were no development athletes and only a very few female swimmers participating in triathlon.  Two women were household names in the sport during this period: Diane Henderson and Jacqueline Jodhan.  With few women competing in the sport, these ladies dominated the sport. Diane still competes today and she is also a level 1 Technical Official.  She continues to contribute to the sport by assisting at events where she gets to impart her knowledge to athletes who are relatively new to the sport and issue warnings and penalties to the more experienced competitor. Four years ago, the Trinidad & Tobago Triathlon Federation (TTTF)  saw the need to increase the number of young athletes in multi-sport and increase female participation. This desire gave birth to the schools multi-sport series. Today the TTTF can boast of a thriving school series with an almost equal amount of girls and boys.  This job of achieving an equal number of female to male participation has been a tough one.  What has been even more challenging is the retention of girls in the sport.  While there has been a marked increase in the number of female participation in the sport, there has also been a significant drop out or withdrawal among female participants in their teenage years. The TTTF recognizes the need to identify key reasons (practical, psycho-social and individual sport specific) for this, and to identify further interventions to shape a new future.  For the girls who continue within the sport, we are noting continuity through the school series with the girls moving from elementary school to high school and continuing to compete in the sport. In the multisport series, one girl showed great promise in the sport: Lily Stauble. Lily came from a football/waterpolo background and was able to dominate the girls’ age group from age 14 to 19 years and managed to qualify for the... Triathlon.org News Feed http://ift.tt/2BFiO26