World Triathlon

ITU and the entire world of triathlon lost a founding father yesterday with the passing of Gunnar Ericsson, Honorary IOC member and Honorary President of ITU.

In the mid-eighties, Gunnar Ericsson, the IOC Vice President at the time, was appointed by Juan Antonio Samaranch, the then President of the IOC, to guide Les McDonald of Canada and Sweden’s Sture Jonasson through the challenging steps of establishing Triathlon as an official sport on the Olympic Programme.

Gunnar had all of the qualities of a true sport leader and he inspired everyone involved in the fledging sport at the time, in a way that was truly exceptional.

ITU President Marisol Casado, said Gunnar Ericsson’s influence among the members of the IOC in those early days of the sport was monumental and a pivotal moment in our history.  We are very sorry that this day has arrived and our deepest sympathy goes to Gunnar’s family and his many wonderful friends within the IOC movement, as well as the Triathlon family.

More information about Gunnar Ericsson’s life and work can be found here..