Triathlon Continues Double Digit Growth

25 May 2015 | sigadmin

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The sport of triathlon is continuing to grow in popularity following another year of double digit growth in the UK – up 14% year on year – according to latest figures from the Triathlon Industry Association (TIA).

Having completed its third UK Annual Triathlete Survey, the TIA quantified revenue generated by the UK’s multisport community at £363 million for 2014.

The 14% uplift in 2014 builds upon the previous year’s rise of 12% in 2013. According to TIA, all categories generated growth in 2014, driven by a rise in triathlete numbers alongside new product introductions and marketing initiatives.

With a population of 130,000 active racing triathletes, the average total spend per person was calculated as £2,790.

In terms of newcomers to the sport, the majority of triathletes (54%) came from a running background. In tandem, road cycling (23%) has also started to build a role as an area from which athletes migrate into multisport.

The number of women getting into the sport was also up on last year. Compared to an overall average of 28% of triathletes, 33% of new starters in 2014 were women.

The third TIA Annual Triathlete Survey – a 100-page report produced by independent research company, MultiSport Research – was conducted in the first quarter 2015, with responses received from over 4,300 triathletes.

Gary Roethenbaugh, managing director of MultiSport Research, the author of the report for the TIA said: “Overall, triathlon has maintained a strong footing in the face of competition from the likes of obstacle racing and other mass participation events.

“Once hooked on the sport, triathletes continue to demonstrate a constant desire to improve. This in turn drives innovation within the industry – with triathletes keen to invest training time and money to build on that all important race day performance.”

Nick Rusling, chairman of TIA added: “Triathlon can be seen by runners and other athletes as a solo sport. Yet, one of triathlon’s virtues is its community of athletes; and the sense of community provides a real welcome to new participants.”