MIND THE (GENDER) GAP

Do women get an equal experience in triathlon..? A report published at the end of last year offered some hard-hitting truths. But having shaken the tri world awake, the two organisations behind the survey have already ushered in some incredible changes. Here's how, as well as a look at the work still to be done...

- LIZ BARRETT

In December 2024 a report was released by two organisations, SheRACES and Women in Tri UK, entitled 'Closing the gender gap: tackling the underrepresentation of women in triathlon'.

The results and testimony from over 900 female triathletes, who contributed to the survey and shared their real-life experiences of events in the UK and around the world, shocked the global tri community.

The statistics, such as 'only 3% of athletes reported neither being deterred from entering a race (for reasons other than cost), nor experiencing inequitable provision as a woman', were stark. Others, while less surprising, still made for uncomfortable reading – '67% of women are put off entering triathlon events due to the cost' and '57% of respondents have experienced insufficient toilet provisions at races'.

Then there was this – 28% of female triathletes in the survey reported having experienced physical or verbal harassment at a race. Just read that again. Out of 900 women that equals 252. Almost a third.

The report quoted women who had suffered verbal harassment, such as being shouted at to move, comments about their body, clothing or ability, and race marshals and other participants making inappropriate or sexual comments. Physical harassment and abuse included being pushed and shoved, inappropriate and unwanted touching/hugging, and dangerously close overtaking when cycling. One respondent even described being spat at during the run by a male competitor.