I recently read an article about the growth of triathlon. In 1993, USAT membership was just short of 16,000 members. Year end 2010, it had over 130,000. Not all triathletes register with USAT so there are many more of us than statistic show. And that got me thinking about how we (TC) has grown; not just in numbers but in other ways.

I remember the days when coffee night at Bad Ass was Sinta, Linus, a few crickets, and me. But thanks to members like Paulene, Rachelle, Sandy, Anna, and others who post pictures and workouts, TC has spread out quite significantly. We’ve steadily grown from 35 active members at 2008’s renewal meeting to over 75 this year. Our message board (AKA Yahoo Groups), once required CPR. Initially, TC’s message board averaged one message per day. Now averaging close to twenty messages per day, it’s taken on the desired and intended life of its own. This is in spite of the social media craze which has also benefited TC. Facebook was a shot in TC’s arm facilitating connections (get it?) and communication throughout the membership. While these tools assist with growth, it’s the product and the people that are at the core of TC’s success.

TC’s product is simple yet very distinguishable. We welcome everyone! Whether you belong to another club, you’re new to the sport, you’re not in shape, you don’t have a clue what triathlon is, don’t know how to get started, or fresh off the couch, you’re welcome. We take care of our own! If you flat or fall behind on the bike, you won't be left to fend for yourself. As you get stronger in our group, you do the same for others new to the group. Its our culture.

We work out as a group which means we finish as a group. There’s no calling a cab when you come out with us. While we are fiercely competitive, it’s all in fun. At the end of a workout, weekend, or meal (because we can eat), with us, you’ll say, “Let’s do that again.” TC’s people are simply the best. Don’t take my word for it. Come out and experience the camaraderie, warmth, family like environment created by our membership. As the founder, I couldn’t be more proud of the caliber of people TC has attacked and the friendships made through the pursuit of this sickness called triathlon. Thank you to all the members who made TC what it is and please keep doing it.

See you on the road, on the trail, and maybe in the pool. -Tony