The biggest difference between WTC and ITU, for example, is the Olympic movement. Global/National/Governmental federations vs. Private Equity.
TriMark pointed it out earlier in this thread. IM, in the early days, was not an industry. It was an event or a few events. AG and pro raced together. It has changed, now it is an industry. Dan has posted quite a bit about stewards of the sport. USAT love them or hate them is a governing body. They are championed with growing the sport, they are a steward of the sport by their mission statement. You can argue that the bulk of the growth (in the US) has been due to IM events and that would probably be true. Their pro focus in generally on the Olympic movement. So, an event that started out and paralleled other triathlons has turned into an industry within itself. The IM industry as opposed to the triathlon industry. The lines blur between IM and triathlon, though in the US triathlon is almost synonymous with IM. I do think that generally they are a good steward of the sport.
This goes to another post. But as for value. It is a difficult question. Value is a two-way street when you aren't talking about the Olympic movement and NGB or other funding. I like to fish, I haven't fished in forever. But, how are bass fishing pros paid? I don't really see fishing tournaments on mainstream TV. So, everyone says pros need to add value, but it's a tough nut to crack. There are several of us who try, but again...I can't tell you how many Cervelo bikes we've sold, or Smith glasses. Referral codes, etc. work but those are impulse buys generally or on the spot. It's hard for someone to say...Brandon has a Roka 10% off code that I remember reading about 2 months ago when they are ready to purchase. So, we (pros) hear that person.
I don't know the answer as to what is better 10x$400,000 or 50x$80,000. I would look at it as number of athletes who can get paid. As for a voice, even Messick said earlier this year he thinks it would be great if there were a unified voice. We've got 4 pro 'ambassadors' via WTC. There is only 1 who has stuck their neck out to my knowledge or tried to do much. So, we'll see.
Added: Is a $25k IM purse or $15k 70.3 purse worth it? It's an individual question. As a general comment about wins, pro bonuses, etc. I doubt there are many World Champ bonuses that go past 5th, unless it's a very small amount of $$. Many are win only for all other races. So, you can argue that it can be worth it to do a $25k/$15k race if you win. And, that's also the best argument to use for more equitable purses...the athlete who wins (or maybe podiums with top-3) is going to make something over and above the prize money. Honestly though...big money at fewer competitions legitimizes sport.
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