NatMag-Rodale, the publisher of Runner’s World and Triathlete’s World in the UK, is scrapping the print version of Triathlete’s World magazine and is moving to an online-only business model. It is understood that the November edition of the monthly Triathlete’s World magazine, edited by Alison Hamlett, will be the last ‘regular-frequency issue’.
NatMag-Rodale had reportedly ‘realigned its strategy’ within the market and its focus will now shift to growing its digital business.
A spokesperson said no jobs will be lost as a result of the move and that Hamlett will stay at Triathlete’s World as website editor and specialist publications editor.
According to a release by NatMag-Rodale, “Alison will be responsible for building the website along the highly successful Runner’s World model, involving a rich content experience, comprehensive race entry system and a suite of interactive tools.”
She will also edit Natmag-Rodale’s growing portfolio of ‘bookazines’ in the running and triathlon market categories.
Group Publishing Director Alun Williams said, “Triathlete’s World is a great brand, with a distinct position within the triathlon market. However given the size of the market, and the number of titles within it, we see the future of this brand within the digital space.
“The website is flourishing, and has an unrivalled database of followers. We are delighted that Alison Hamlett will lead the next phase of our development on Triathlete’s World – Alison has a wealth of editorial experience in triathlon and running, and is a BSME award-winning editor.”
Following its original launch in 2009, the Triathlete’s World magazine title was positioned as the first triathlon magazine specifically targeted at the newcomer to the sport who is worried about the transition from a single endurance activity, such as running or cycling, into the swim/bike/run challenge of triathlon.
Triathlete’s World offers health, fitness and nutrition advice around a core of easy to follow training programmes, product buying guides and event information.
Three magazine titles now remain in the UK triathlon market: 220 Triathlon, Triathlete Europe and Triathlon Plus. All three titles have an online presence. Tri247.com remains the most popular website for UK triathletes, with its comprehensive event database and the recently launched GE triVIEWER.
