Back The Bid

Last edited on 05/01/13 at 6:36 pm

The International Triathlon Union is passionate about having Triathlon Mixed Relay added to the Olympic programme, as the format appeals tremendously to youth.  With numerous lead changes, lots of unpredictable drama and the display of team pride, the discipline develops the sport among new generations and new audiences. Additionally, the mixed relay format represents ITU’s commitment to promoting gender equality in sport, showcasing that men and women can practice the sport together on the same field of play.
Marisol Casado, President of ITU and IOC member who is heading the campaign for the inclusion of Triathlon Mixed Relay on the Olympic Programme said,
“The Triathlon Mixed Relay World Championships are crucial in ITU’s quest to have a team event on the Olympic programme. The IOC Executive Board approved the mixed relay for the Youth Olympic Games, demonstrating the IOC’s support of the concept. It also represented an important step forward for the team relay’s inclusion in future Olympic Games.”

The benefits of Triathlon Mixed Relay as an Olympic Sport are as follows:
- The same athletes can compete in the individual and team events– with no additional numbers required.
- The triathlon venue can be reused at minimal additional cost
- The proposed short format is TV-friendly
- The 50:50 ratio of men and women is in line with the IOC’s gender equity goal
- The event is extremely exciting for both onsite spectators and the television audience
- The event represents a chance for a spread of medals to nations who might not necessarily win the individual events

What the athletes are saying
Emma Snowsill, Australia. Beijing Olympic champion:
“It’s fantastic; I think it just shows the sport and what we do in a slightly different format. Obviously, there are a lot of other sports that get to compete as a team and this is just the same. If they can see how exciting it is, how close the racing is even after having four team members; I think it really should be a part of the Games.”
Simon Whitfield, Canada. Sydney Olympic champion, Beijing Olympic silver medallist:
“It was another great day and this event is very exciting for the future of our sport, it was definitely fun and everyone raced exceptionally well. It’s a spectacular event.”
Greg Fraine, New Zealand national coach:
“In this type of racing if you aren’t at 100% you are going to be off the pace, it was relentless; all race and seconds at crucial moments can make or break your chances. Team racing is an exciting addition to the sport and one that will go from strength to strength.”