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Supporting inclusion in the region

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We’ve spoken to Phil Murray, Chair of the North East Triathlon England Regional Committee, about how the region are working to be more inclusive and grow the level of diversity within the sport.

Murray commented on the openness and inclusivity of triathlon generally, highlighting its friendly nature with he himself taking part in triathlon alongside his two children. This in itself demonstrates the inclusion of all ages in the sport and Murray coaches for a club called ‘Ride and Tri’ which are currently putting focus on the youngsters in the club.

As a region, their mixed gender team won gold at the inter-regional championships. These mixed gender team events are another excellent demonstration of the inclusivity of triathlon with boys and girls aged 11-14 coming together to earn points. He says the children have really bought into the mixed events and gives an anecdote of his own children who participate in the club ‘making friendships that they have sustained for years’. He also comments that travelling round the country from competition to competition is a great way of reconnecting with old friends and forming a big triathlon community.

Murray also highlighted that at a young age the gender split of members is fairly even but as they get older and into the adult section, it becomes male dominant. This is common across all sports as often when girls hit their teenage years they stop participating in sport. However, the North East Committee are trying to encourage more girls to participate by teaming up with other sports such as swimming and running to encourage more young people and hopefully young girls to transfer to triathlon from their original sport.

The level of ability that is required to participate in triathlon is extremely mixed. The levels vary from beginner to performance and there are high numbers of young people in each and the non-requirement for experience or knowledge of the sport is another thing which makes triathlon so inclusive. It is important that triathlon can offer both ends of the spectrum in this sense to broaden the diversity of people that get involved.

At Murray’s own club, he comments that some of the younger members have hidden disabilities which are accommodated willingly and without question. He notes that it is important for all the children to feel happy in the environment and that they have a pleasurable experience of triathlon. This attitude towards the sport is incredibly important in ensuring a diverse and inclusive environment.

 

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