For those who want to host high-level triathlon action in a format that combines real-life and virtual action, here is an excellent opportunity.
World Triathlon and supertri have announced that the application process for cities to host the supertri E World Triathlon Championship is now open.
Cities worldwide (and yes, that includes the U.S.) are invited to bid for the opportunity to host the annual World Championship event, which blends real-life and virtual racing, crowning the official Esports Triathlon World Champions in partnership with World Triathlon.
supertri E World Triathlon Championship RFP and bid information
Timeline: Interested cities must submit their applications before August 15, 2024. The selection and announcement of the host city for 2025 and 2026 will take place in November 2024.
World Triathlon notes that… ‘supertri E is known for its high-octane racing, featuring the world’s best athletes competing in-stadia, safe from any adverse weather conditions. The unique format includes swimming in Olympic pools and bike and run disciplines completed on smart trainers and self-powered curved treadmills, all integrated into a virtual race environment. The event’s broadcast brings these elements together, delivering an immersive and captivating experience for viewers.’
“We are thrilled to open the bidding process for cities to host the supertri E World Triathlon Championship,” said Michael Dhulst, CEO of supertri.
“Our goal is to inspire and entertain, creating an unparalleled experience for athletes and fans alike. Host cities will benefit from extensive media coverage and the chance to showcase their commitment to innovation and sport.”
supertri E, originally created in 2020 under the name Arena Games Triathlon has been recognized for its blend of Olympic-level athleticism and virtual technology, leveraging Zwift’s platform, and was featured at the IOC’s Olympic Esports Week.
“supertri E represents the future of triathlon, combining the best of real and virtual racing,” said Marisol Casado, President of World Triathlon. “We are excited to partner with cities that share our vision of promoting health, wellbeing, and the spirit of competition through this innovative format.”
The supertri E World Triathlon Championship has attracted spectators to venues and ‘millions of viewers through TV and streaming’. In 2023 alone, the event aired on 15 broadcasters across 135 countries and claimed to reach 25.4m households.
The digital video views reportedly grew 92% between 2022 and 2023 reaching 25 million.
Previous host cities include London, Rotterdam, Montreal, Munich, and Singapore. Cities chosen to host supertri E will gain media. World Triathlon notes that the event is highly adaptable, able to take place both indoors and outdoors, and is delivered as a turnkey solution with supertri E providing all necessary technology and operational support.
supertri E offers more than entertainment. In collaboration with local triathlon federations and triathlon clubs, the event has also provided participation opportunities for local communities in the build-up to the main event.
By adding age group racing and corporate challenges to the program, World Triathlon points out supertri E can engage local enthusiasts and add to the impact of the event to the local community. Youth and junior races as well as para racing can also be part of the program, offering talent development opportunities and inspiring the next generation of local athletes.
The impact of hosting the event is measured across a range of parameters, including economy, image, society, sport, and environment. Key findings of impact reports produced for recent events hosted in Montreal and London in 2022 and 2023 revealed that 65% of spectators came from outside the host economy and 85% of spectators were inspired to engage in more sport and physical activity.
Interested cities must submit their applications before August 15, 2024. The selection and announcement of the host city for 2025 and 2026 will take place in November 2024.
www.triathlon.org | www.supertri.com
Thanks to Endurance.Biz, who first noted this opportunity. The original link can be found here.
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