A new scheme has been launched by British Triathlon to formally recognise individuals who play important roles within the triathlon community.

Today (Tuesday 11 April) sees the launch of three separate Activator programmes; the Community Award, Young People Award and Open Water Award.

The term ‘Tri Activator’ encompasses a range of roles and responsibilities that often arise within a club or event environment; for example, welcoming members, organising activities or leading training sessions. The common theme is that Activators provide training opportunities for participants in a fun and social manner, leading participants to maintain regular triathlon participation. Whilst not a formal coaching qualification, a Tri Activator will often facilitate sessions set by a qualified triathlon coach.

The awards are aimed at individuals who may either be looking for greater involvement within the triathlon community or a more formal recognition for their current commitment, but do not yet feel ready to take the leap to become a qualified coach or Technical Official.

The Community Award sees Activators organise and lead cycling and running sessions, assist coaches with delivering sessions and help cultivate connections within their local clubs and communities, all aimed at encouraging participation within the sport.

We already have a huge number of fantastic volunteers and now, with the introduction of the Activator Awards, we have a way of formally recognising their hard work.

The Young People Award is a similar program designed to provide necessary skills for 14-17 year olds to run activities aimed at encouraging participation within triathlon at a grassroots level. The role could be activated within afterschool clubs or a more traditional club setting, under the supervision of an adult coach or Community Tri Activator

The Open Water Award, whilst with similar objectives to the previous two, has a key focus on supporting organised open water swimming sessions in approved venues, with an emphasis on safety and risk management.

Natalie Justice-Dearn, British Triathlon Director of Delivery, said: “Triathlon as a sport is continuing to grow and, with this, comes increasing demands on clubs and communities to deliver engaging activity.

“We already have a huge number of fantastic volunteers who offer invaluable support in various ways in order for this to happen and now, with the introduction of the Activator Awards, we have a way of formally recognising their hard work."

Both the Community Award and Young People Award have been successfully piloted over the last 12 months, with plans to pilot the Open Water Award in May this year.

The first official Activator courses will take place in June 2017 and plan to run throughout Great Britain over the coming months. To register your interest in becoming an Activator, please email activator@britishtriathlon.org. 

For more information on Tri Activators, please visit here.