ADVOCACY

DRIVING CHANGE

At Women in Tri UK, we believe every woman deserves the opportunity to experience the mental and physical benefits of swim, bike, run, and triathlon. Yet, systemic barriers still prevent many from taking part. That’s why we work with the industry, governing bodies, and policymakers to challenge outdated norms, push for real policy changes, and create a more inclusive, accessible, and welcoming sport for all women.

From race organisers and brands to governing bodies, researchers, and sponsors, we collaborate with key players in the industry to drive meaningful, lasting change.

WHAT WE'RE FIGHTING FOR

AN INCLUSIVE SPORT

Every woman should feel welcome and supported in triathlon. We push for fair race policies, including realistic cutoff times, accessible facilities (such as changing spaces for Muslim athletes), and event structures designed with women’s needs in mind.

We work with clubs and coaches to ensure training environments are inclusive, supportive, and free from barriers to participation.

A DIVERSE SPORT

Representation matters. We advocate for diverse imagery in race marketing, more women in coaching and leadership roles, and club environments that reflect the communities they serve.

By working with governing bodies, brands, and event organisers, we aim to ensure women of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and abilities feel seen, valued, and supported in the sport.

A SAFER SPORT

No woman should feel unsafe or unwelcome in triathlon. We push for stronger anti-harassment policies, clear athlete codes of conduct, and unconscious bias training within clubs and event teams.

We support race organisers in improving safety measures at events, ensuring that triathlon is a sport where every woman can participate with confidence.

A MORE AFFORDABLE SPORT

Cost is the biggest barrier to participation, with 63% of women citing it as their main challenge. Many funding programs overlook the unique barriers women and ethnic minorities face, so we advocate for targeted support.

We work with race organisers and brands to develop sustainable, inclusive solutions that keep triathlon accessible and environmentally responsible.

“As a hijab-wearer, I am unsure if there will be a modest changing area for me to use to transition between swimwear and full coverage cycling/running clothes.

Also whether I will face any pushback over needing to wear modest swimwear (e.g. if wetsuits are compulsory, I will need to wear loose board shorts as well to ensure my body shape is not completely exposed).”

HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED

Race Organisers: Work with us to create a more inclusive event that attracts and supports more female athletes.

Brands & Sponsors: Partner with us to increase access to quality gear, improve representation, and support grassroots initiatives.

Athletes & Supporters: Be an advocate! Share our mission, call out inequality, and support women breaking into the sport.

TACKLING THE UNDERREPRESENTATION OF WOMEN IN TRIATHLON

Our advocacy is backed by research and data to drive systemic change. In collaboration with She Races, we co-authored a report capturing the experiences of 900+ women in triathlon, highlighting the barriers they face and the changes needed to make races more inclusive.

This research provides essential insights for race organisers and governing bodies, shaping policies that better support women in the sport.

Read the report

PARTNER WITH US

If you’re passionate about making triathlon more inclusive, diverse, and accessible, we want to hear from you.

Get in Touch: collaborations@womenintriuk.org