Super League Triathlon reach out to the Stars
Super League Triathlon reach out to the Stars as it enters the US market with the acquisition of Malibu Triathlon.
Since 1986 the Malibu Triathlon has been one of the most high-profile triathlon events in the United States and is renowned for the star-studded celebrity’s that take part in the event . Over the years big name stars like American actress, singer, Jennifer Lopez (J.Lo), award winning American actresses, Terri Hatcher and Felicity Huffman both of ‘Desperate Housewives’ fame and Academy Award winning, Matthew McConaughey have all competed in the event in support of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles (CHLA).
In 2019, the Malibu Triathlon presented by Bank of America raised over $1.2 million for CHLA. Since partnering with CHLA, the event has raised over $15 million to date.
This investment in Malibu Triathlon was handpicked due its incredible history in sprint and Olympic distance racing and its incredible potential for Super League Triathlon. According to Super League Triathlon CEO and co-founder Michael D’hulst, “Acquiring the Malibu Triathlon is a perfect opportunity for Super League to move into the USA and build our presence in a region that already has a strong affinity with exciting and dynamic racing and the content that Super League offer. It also aligns with Super Leagues wider strategy to add more major cities and regions to our portfolio.”
The Malibu Triathlon starts and finishes on the sands of Zuma Beach and takes in the incredible ocean views of the Pacific Coast Highway. This year’s event was replaced by the Virtual Triathlon and Duathlon presented by Bank of America. More than 700 participants from around the world took part raising $200,000 for Paediatric Cancer Research at CHLA.
Super League Triathlon have not invested into Malibu as a celebrity sideshow although this element will raise STL’s profile and sit nicely alongside their corporate hospitality. Their strategy will be to gain a foothold into the United States, being one of the largest players in Triathlon in terms of finance, sponsorship, competitors and spectators. In 2019, the event attracted some 2,500 entrants.
What the format for the race will look like next year remains unclear – according to an FAQ posted on the Malibu Triathlon website the “Malibu Triathlon will continue to run under its own brand … and Malibu’s amazing short course racing heritage will continue for the amazing age groupers, entertainment industry, corporations and celebrities who love the event so much. All participants who have rolled over their entries from the cancelled 2020 event will still be able to race.”
If Super League Triathlon keep the traditional September date for the race this would open the door for the event to host one of the Super League Championship races, which have typically taken place between August and October. That date would also not conflict with the Olympics, the World Triathlon Grand Final in Edmonton, or the sprint world championships in Bermuda.
