Pros get together and form union
The Professional Triathlon Union was announced today with several famed pro triathletes listed as signatories, with the goal to represent non-drafting triathletes and stakeholders. Jodie Swallow, Rachel Joyce, Helle Frederiksen, Mirinda Carfrae, Meredith Kessler, Mary Beth Ellis, Angela Naeth, Sebastian Kienle, Pete Jacobs, Dirk Bockel, Dylan McNiece, Tim O’Donnell, James Cunnama, Andreas Dreitz and Scott DeFilippis are listed on the board of directors, and retired British Pro Rich Allen is serving as the executive director.
“I am delighted to be involved in this exciting endeavor, which is perhaps one of the greatest developments to ever take place in our sport. We look forward to addressing many issues in the professional sport, helping the sport grow in its entirety and building strong working relationships with all stakeholders," said executive director Rich Allen in a press release.
This is not the first effort of its kind. PROTA (Professional Triathlon Association) was spearheaded by Jarrod Shoemaker and quietly moved along from 2010 to 2013, and then became silent with the last tweet uttered on May 8th, 2013.
But this Professional Triathlon Union effort seems much more focused and promising, as it has many big players from around the globe on board from day one.
“ITU pros can join us to access the money saving benefits such as accident insurance. We don't represent them at this stage because we feel that there is already a strong communications channel and good representation through their National Federations, the ITU Athlete Board and the ITU/IOC," added Allen when asked why ITU pros are not part of this union. “Our only goal is to make the sport better for all. PROTA did a great job and tried.. we are the next step.”
“It is an honor to be a part of such a landmark initiative. I feel as a collective group, professional triathletes can aid the global development of the sport. We will be a powerful voice and a great asset to race organizations and the sport on a whole. We must strive to be recognized in all aspects of the sport and successfully achieving this will take time, but I’m confident that long term, membership numbers, recognition, productivity and value of the Professional Triathlon Union will be high,” said Helle Frederiksen.
The newly formed PTU has reportedly had positive dialogue with the WTC, Challenge Family, and the ITU to discuss communications and collaboration in the future.
Pro athletes interested in learning more may visit protriunion.com
