Originally part of the Ironman portfolio, LAVA Magazine (LAVA), the two-year-old publication targeted at the serious triathlete, now has new ownership. LAVA will now be owned and operated by LAVA Media LLC, a group of private investors with a long-term tie to the triathlon community.
“Ironman is in the business of creating extraordinary races and event experiences, not publishing,” said Andrew Messick, Chief Executive Officer of Ironman brand owner World Triathlon Corp (WTC). “We are delighted for LAVA to thrive under new ownership and look forward to watching and helping the magazine grow.”
According to SEC filings, LAVA Media LLC is registered in Solana Beach, California.
John Duke, the former Publisher of Triathlete Magazine, who started LAVA in partnership with WTC in early 2010, remains in the picture. Duke is a director of the new LAVA Media business. Also on board as directors at LAVA Media are: Active Network CEO Dave Alberga; Active Network President Matt Landa; and Matt Michelsen, CEO and founder of Backplane, ‘a social web community that unites people around interests, affinities and movements.’
LAVA Media LLC, will own and operate the magazine’s print, online and digital properties. Ironman and LAVA will continue a partnership, and LAVA will be designated as the Official Magazine of Ironman.
LAVA will also retain its current staff with Heather Gordon in the role of Publisher.
