The Danskin Triathlon Series — the largest and longest running women's triathlon series in the world – celebrates its 20th Anniversary this year with an expanded schedule of events, a new partnership and innovative programming designed to inspire and motivate more women across the country. The Series kicks off with two events this weekend: Danskin Tempe on May 9th and the 10th Anniversary Danskin Orlando on May 10th.
Since establishing the series in 1990 as a part of Danskin's longstanding commitment to women's health and fitness more than 200,000 women have participated in the series and know first-hand the empowering and life-changing experience that embodies “the Danskin.”
The 2009 Danskin Series adds three new events to the schedule hosting a total of 11 sprint distance triathlons between May and September. To date, more than 18,000 women have registered for the series and events in four cities have sold out.
“We are very proud to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Danskin Triathlon Series,” said Kevin Nisbet, COO of Danskin/Triumph Apparel Corporation. “Our goal for our anniversary year is to rejuvenate the series with more events, better programs and a new enthusiasm. This year's series will have the same support, safety and great environment women have come to expect from Danskin but with new features to make the series a more meaningful and relevant experience for women of all ages.”
Through a new partnership with the three-year old SheROX Women's Triathlon Series, the Danskin Series adds three additional cities — Philadelphia, Miami and Tempe, AZ – while combining the expertise and innovation of each event.
“Danskin pioneered the women-only triathlon and remains resolute in providing the best possible experience for women,” added Nisbet. “The opportunity to join forces with the fast growing SheROX Triathlon Series is a great way for us to continue to be at the forefront of women's multisport. We've added the exclusive SheROX Mentor program, three new exciting cities as well as Olympic and world champion athletes who will help us continue to enhance the Danskin experience. We are honored to have Sheila Taormina and Karen Smyers provide their training and racing expertise to our athletes as part of our REI Training Seminars hosted in our race markets. Both Sheila and Karen are recent inductees into the USA Triathlon Hall of Fame and have been at the top of the sport as Olympic, World and Ironman Champions.”
The complimentary SheROX Mentor Program pairs athletes with experienced female triathletes who provide information and support to help women feel comfortable about what to expect during training and on race day. Mentors are available via e-mail and proactively send regular tips and suggestions to address individual needs and concerns. The Mentor Program also includes regular e-newsletters, group workouts, informational meetings, clinics and social get-togethers to help women prepare for and truly enjoy their Danskin experience.
“The SheROX Mentor Program is a tremendous addition to the Series,” said Barb McKeever, Race Director, Danskin Triathlon Series. “It is geared towards the first-timer but can be effective for the experienced triathlete as well. The great thing about the mentor program is that it provides an easy transition for women into the sport and helps engage a whole new generation of women into an active lifestyle. We are very excited to take this program to each race city as another way to make the Danskin experience a safe, fun and memorable one!”
The Breast Cancer Research Foundation will once again serve as the Official Charity of The Danskin Triathlon Series. The Series has partnered with BCRF since 2004 and has successfully raised more than $850,000 to help end breast cancer in our lifetime. 5% of each full price each entry fee will be donated directly to BCRF. Family and friends can contribute by going to www.DanskinWomensTri.com and clicking on the Breast Cancer Research Foundation page.
The Series is pleased to welcome several corporate partners who will join Danskin in presenting the 20th Anniversary season. National Series partners for 2009 include: blueseventy, Nathan Performance Gear, Penguin Sport-Wash, Luna Bar and REI.
