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Slowtwitch Forums: Triathlon Forum:
Career opportunities in triathlon industry?

 
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inaba116

Aug 28, 08 7:31

Post #1 of 7 (493 views)
Career opportunities in triathlon industry? Can't Post
I am a recent college graduate who is currently working in a bike shop and training for a half-ironman. I enjoy the bike shop environment in that I have constant interaction with people that live active lives, share the same passions as myself, and I have the opportunity to spread the love of the cycling and triathlon to those uneducated in this sport. This is good for now but eventually I will need to pursue more of a career job. I would really like to stay involved in one of the many facets of the industry however I have hit a rut and am not sure where I should start. Who here is involved or has been involved, in a career sense, in the triathlon industry? What are some good career paths for a young, active, motivated individual? I love this sport because of how it motivates people, creates a sense of competition while at the same time unbreakable comradery, and ultimately changes their lives.

Any kind of advice would be greatly appreciated.


Cheers,

Jonathan


Loser

Aug 28, 08 8:20

Post #2 of 7 (423 views)
Re: Career opportunities in triathlon industry? [inaba116] [In reply to] Can't Post
It certainly isn't the most important fact, but it wouldn't hurt if we knew what your degree was.


inaba116

Aug 28, 08 8:35

Post #3 of 7 (388 views)
Re: Career opportunities in triathlon industry? [Loser] [In reply to] Can't Post
business management


DtrainVI

Aug 28, 08 8:37

Post #4 of 7 (375 views)
Re: Career opportunities in triathlon industry? [inaba116] [In reply to] Can't Post
I have the same question....my degree is in Sports Medicine
"Pain is relative...You'll pass out before you die"


stal

Aug 28, 08 8:44

Post #5 of 7 (342 views)
Re: Career opportunities in triathlon industry? [inaba116] [In reply to] Can't Post
Want a career with job security? Follow the money...

Where is the money? I don't know, my guesses would be:
1) LARGE race coordination (think NYC marathon, Kona, and the bodies that own rights to these events)
2) Professional team coordination & management
3) Manufacturers (Marketing, distribution, etc etc)

Or maybe look at the governing bodies of the sport...USAT, USCF, USOC, etc?

My 0.02


ggeiger

Aug 28, 08 8:57

Post #6 of 7 (305 views)
Re: Career opportunities in triathlon industry? [inaba116] [In reply to] Can't Post
I would think that Fleck and Herbert and Slowman would have some great thoughts on this. As opposed to "chasing the money, as some have stated, I'd follow your passions. The cash will come if you are good.


Loser

Aug 28, 08 9:04

Post #7 of 7 (286 views)
Re: Career opportunities in triathlon industry? [inaba116] [In reply to] Can't Post
A few ideas:

1. Owning a tri store. This would greatly depend on how much risk you are willing to take, how big of a market you are in, and whether or not there already is local competition. It might be a little unrealistic for a recent grad, but my local running store is pretty successful in a large metro area and the owner is in his 20s. He used to manage the store when it was under different ownership, but ended up buying the store.

2. Race management. Might not be a full-time job until you've been around for a while, but would be a great stepping stone while staying involved in the tri community.

3. Manufacturer's rep/Sales rep. They need to be knowledgeable with their product, know the customer base, and have good business sense to help the company grow.

4. Coaching. If you have the credentials (personal experience and training certifications) it would help to have business experience to increase your client base.

5. Entrepreneur/Inventor. Obviously you need to have an idea first, but business experience can help here as well.