The Professional Triathletes Organisation (PTO) has appointed Weber Shandwick, one of the world’s leading global communications and marketing agencies, to provide global communications support and promotion of PTO’s flagship event – the Collins Cup – which is scheduled to take place on August 28th at the x-bionic sphere sports resort in Šamorín, Slovakia.
Alongside raising the profile of the PTO, a key focus of the brief for Weber Shandwick will be the promotion of the inaugural Collins Cup. The new race format is modelled on the Ryder Cup, which will see teams of International, European and USA athletes pitted against one another.
‘The Collins Cup aims to create and leverage the excitement, rivalry, drama and personalities of the sport of triathlon to attract a wider fan base.’
Tim Godfrey, Chief Marketing Officer of PTO, said “Through our innovative ownership model, market leading gender equality policies including equal prize purses, equal broadcast airtime and paid maternity leave as well as the global broadcast of The Collins Cup, with a record-setting prize purse of US$1.5m, PTO is impacting the sports world and bringing new opportunities to athletes and fans like never before.
“We are looking forward to working with Weber Shandwick as we continue to build our platform and tell the amazing stories of our athletes.”
In a release, PTO adds that the new PR appointment furthers its commitment to not only raise the profile of PTO Professionals but to raise awareness and the status of the sport of triathlon to attract a wider fan base.
Chris Smith, Senior Vice President, Consumer Marketing, and a senior sports marketing strategist at Weber Shandwick, said “The Professional Triathletes Organisation continues to change the way athletes are seen and respected in their sport.
“We look forward to helping craft and elevate PTO’s message and share their story – not just within the sports field, but to a global audience. Our team brings deep experience in the world of international sports, and we are excited to partner with such an innovative, forward-thinking sports organization.”
The PTO is a not-for-profit entity consisting of both male and female professional triathletes who have come together to form a representative body. This aims to give pro triathletes a voice in the way the sport is operated and to contribute to its growth for the benefit of the entire triathlon community.
‘The PTO seeks to showcase the passion, talents, determination, struggles and achievements of its dedicated professionals through iconic events, reimagined broadcast and compelling storytelling, inspiring global sports fans to watch, engage and participate in triathlon.’
www.protriathletes.org
www.webershandwick.com
