Trek Bicycle will be the title sponsor of the new Trek Women's Triathlon Series. Aimed at breaking down barriers for women athletes, the Trek Women's Triathlon Series is a collection of “race” events around the country designed to provide a fun, non-intimidating atmosphere for both aspiring and experienced triathletes.


With events planned in a dozen markets across the country in 2009, the Trek Women's Triathlon Series anticipates nearly 25,000 participants in its first year, making it one of the largest multi-sport events in the world.

Owned and operated by The Xxtra Mile, a New York-based company focused on promoting active lifestyles for women and girls, the Trek Women's Triathlon Series is built around the sprint distance format (a 1/2-mile swim, 12-mile bike, and 3-mile run) and includes events scheduled for California, Colorado, Florida, Massachusetts, New York Metro, North Carolina, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. Selected cities within the Series will also include “youth focused” triathlons. The first Trek Women's Triathlon will debut in Florida 2009.


A final 2009 schedule is expected to be announced by December 31, 2008.


“When Maggie Sullivan, director of the Danskin Women's Triathlon series for the last 17 years, asked me if Trek WSD would be interested in being title sponsor of a new women's series, I was thrilled,” said Krista Rettig, Trek's women's specific design (WSD) brand manager. “Knowing the amount of experience behind Maggie and her team, and the quality of race she puts on, there was never a doubt we wanted to make it happen. And having an incredible asset like Sally Edwards on board as the spokeswoman for the new series aligns perfectly with our WSD mission.”

“I've dedicated my life to encouraging women to become more physically active, to use triathlons as a means of achieving their life goals,” noted Edwards, a Hall of Frame triathlete, CEO of Heart Zones USA, and best selling author of 22 books on triathlon and fitness training. “I am so proud to be joining this series with Trek and to take our efforts to a whole new level.”


In addition to its title sponsorship role, Trek WSD plans to support the Women's Triathlon Series with its “Fit For Women” Demo team, who'll be on hand during each event to offer test rides of the latest Trek women's bikes, provide product advice, and discuss proper bike fit. Trek WSD will also develop special promotions in conjunction with the events for its Ride Club members, giving them VIP access and special product opportunities. Finally, members of Trek's “Women Who Ride” crew will be on hand at the events to blog their experiences with the rest of the on-line community.