Published October 29, 2009 01:11PM
With a record 10 events and more than 23,000 women registered, the Danskin Triathlon Series recently completed its 20th Anniversary Series remaining the largest and longest running women’s triathlon series in the world.
“We want to congratulate the 23,000 women who signed up to be a part of our 20th Anniversary Danskin Series this year,” said Barb McKeever, Danskin Triathlon Series Director. “For the last 20 years, the Danskin Series has been at the forefront of women’s multisport. We hosted a record 10 events across the country this year, added new features and cities to engage a whole new generation of women in the sport. As the Series grows, we will continue to provide the best possible experience and inspire more women to challenge themselves in a Danskin Triathlon!”
As it has for the last several years, the Series supports Breast Cancer Research Foundation – the official charity of the Danskin Series. Since 2004, the Series had raised more than $900,000 supporting the Foundation’s mission to end breast cancer in our lifetime.
In celebration of the 20th Anniversary, Kirsten Young, a school teacher and amateur triathlete, competed in every race in the Series to raise money for Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Kirsten collected pledges and donations at each race expo with an initial goal to raise $10,000. With an overwhelming amount of support and determination on her part, Kirsten more than doubled her goal raising $25,000 for the Foundation.
Launched as a part of Danskin’s commitment to women’s health and fitness, more than 225,000 women have participated in the Series since 1990. This year, the popular series added new cities and features such as the complimentary SheROX Mentor Program. The innovative 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 helping women prepare for and truly enjoy their Danskin experience.
The Danskin Series has played a significant role in the triathlon boom over the last decade. According to USA Triathlon, since 2000 female USAT membership has grown from 27% of the total of the annual members to over 38% at the end of 2008. A major factor leading to this growth has been “the growth of women’s-only events like the Danskin…” (Source: USA Triathlon).
2010 Danskin Triathlon Series schedule and registration dates will be announced in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to DanskinWomensTri.com for details.