World Triathlon commissioned a three-phase research programme to build the first comprehensive, triathlon-specific evidence base on gender equality across participation, coaching, technical officiating, and governance. Together, these phases offer a unique understanding of what gender equality looks like in triathlon, what drives it, and how it is experienced across different national contexts.
This document is aimed at complementing the ‘Triathlon: A Sport of Gender Equality?’ research conducted by The Centre for Social Justice in Sport and Society, Carnegie School of Sport, Leeds Beckett University, UK, by analysing relevant World Triathlon historical data and attempting to provide a platform for female coaches in the World Triathlon ecosystem to express their opinions.
This document provides further insights into the typical female triathlon coach profile, based on the global rollout of the related survey during the 2026 Certification Revalidation of Coaches. World Triathlon aimed this rollout at increasing the female sample size and geographical coverage, and therefore the relevance of the survey, and collecting responses from male coaches as well to map potential differences between the two genders.
The Transgender Policy was approved by the Executive Board in August 2022, following a period of consultation with the Medical Committee, Athletes Committee, Coaches Committee, Legal & Constitution Committee, Women’s Committee and the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Commission, as well as multiple experts in the field and the transgender community. The current policy was revised in January 2025.
6-week beginner programme for women entering triathlon. Focus: confidence, skills, supportive environment.
Targets teenage girls’ participation via club grants. Focus on empowerment, confidence, non-competitive engagement.
Seasonal camps, training sessions, community-building activities.
Female ambassadors promoting participation, leadership, and visibility.
Club-level leadership. Joint project with Cycling Ireland.
Leadership programme to empower young female athletes aged 16-21. Joint project with Cycling Ireland, Rowing Ireland, and Swim Ireland.
Last edition was in 2025; no 2026 date announced yet.
Support and develop female student coaches, helping them reach their full potential. Joint project with Student Sport Ireland (SSI).
Nationwide calendar of women-focused races (all levels). Includes training plans and community engagement.
Institutional pathway increasing female participation in sport.
Community building. “First Triathlon Programme” to reduce entry barriers. Mentorship Programme. Fund Her Tri (financial support programme).
