Triathlon Board Appoints New Chairman

Nick Rusling, CEO of Human Race Group, has been appointed chairman of the new Triathlon Industry Association board, and will be supported in the role by Mel Berry of Avalanche, as deputy chairman.

Rusling will take over from David Townsend (TCR Shows) and Jim Peskett (Competitor Group), who have shared the role for the past year.

Since its inception in November 2011, TIA has become the authoritative source of data about triathlon in the UK through the publication of two TIA Annual Triathlete Surveys.

Rusling said: ‘The sport of triathlon is going through another critical phase in its development with so much competition out there to capture people’s time.’

‘Our industry is an exceptionally friendly and co-operative one and we share a number of collective objectives, all of which makes my new role as Chairman of the TIA both rewarding and challenging.’

‘I started with this great sport when the London Triathlon had 800 people and every journalist called triathlon ‘gruelling’. We’ve come a long way since then but we need to keep learning to ensure our development as an industry and sport continues and I hope I can play my part in this process over the coming months.’

Meanwhile, Berry’s responsibilities will include overseeing issues arising over kit and equipment, in line with her commercial background.

The TIA comprises event organisers, equipment manufacturers, tour operators, retailers, distributors and media.