The International Triathlon Union (ITU) has announced the signing of an extended development grant contract with the Asian Triathlon Confederation (ASTC), building on an agreement forged in early 2016. As part of the grant, funds will be invested in strategic development goals including athlete and coach development as well as technical and event development and increasing the participation of women in triathlon.
Most recently, aspiring triathletes from South East Asia were given the opportunity to take part in a South East Asian Sport Development camp. The purpose of this camp was not only to give young triathletes the chance to learn triathlon skills and become better athletes but to train with fellow athletes from around the world. The next ASTC project is the ITU level 2 coaching course in Hong Kong from 28 November to 3 December.
2018 is seen to be an exciting year for the ASTC in coaching and development with a number of courses running throughout the year, including coaching seminars in Dubai and Macau, a Talent Identification Camp in Kuala Lumpur as well as the Women’s Development Continental Camp in Indonesia to name a few.
ITU President and IOC Member, Marisol Casado said “ASTC’s plan will provide a positive contribution to the sport through a variety of initiatives and it’s wonderful to give them the support to continue developing our fantastic sport. The plan is predominantly focused on developing talent in athletes and coaches alike, which demonstrates how committed ASTC President Justin Park is with the development necessities of Asian areas.”
Park said “The signing of this development grant contract is a major step forward for us as we seek to consolidate the work of our Development Committee. The hours spent by our dedicated team has resulted in significant support and acknowledgment from ITU. Our plan is focused on fostering the growth of National Federations and creating talent in athletes and coaches. I have taken on-board the ‘wish list’ from our federations and feel that the way forward, as presented by the Development Committee, is the right one for us here in the Asian area.”
He added, “I would like to once again extend my sincerest gratitude to ITU for the continued support and confidence in our work, and I look forward to seeing our new athletes race in 2018 and beyond.”
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