In 2023 The State of The Sport Is?

Mark you’ve been in the race directing game for over 20 years. Do you have a specific memory from your first event that stands out? 

Yes, the first couple of years were so laid-back with the Hudson Valley Triathlon Club. We used to rest our bikes against some shrubs as a transition area.  It was an inter-club competition, so no one cared much, especially since everyone had to do the same thing. It was true grassroots racing!

What is your philosophy on race directing?

I like to know as many athletes as possible. I shake EVERY athlete's hand as they enter the water for the start of EVERY race.  So, at the Delta Lake Triathlon, I’ll connect with over 300 athletes minutes before the race.  Also, it’s a personal preference of mine to say a short prayer before each race. I always announce that no one has to participate but that I NEED the prayer for my own well-being.  Inevitably, there’s always a small crowd that joins me. Most feel settled and focused on what’s REALLY important…our safety.

You have a variety of races including Tri’s, Duathlon’s, and running races. What would you say the vibe is like at your events? 

Tonia and I are so proud of our events. The vibe is always fun, competitive, and supportive.  We don’t believe you have to sacrifice one of these elements for the others. At our event CassadagaMan, All-Americans get the competition they desire, while the beginners feel safe and welcome. In my opinion, there’s no room for over-zealous egos; it’s “stay humble, or go home."

Any advice for up-and-coming race directors? 

Yes. Too many buoys on swim courses are CONFUSING; especially if your buoys haven’t been secured perfectly.  And, keep the design simple; triangle, square, or rectangle.  Yes, please think like an athlete. For cyclists, anticipate the need for signage WAY EARLY and often for courses. Most athletes are going so fast that they need time to identify, adjust and decide that a turn is coming. The rule I use is 3; three arrows and then a confirmation arrow AFTER the turn has been made.  It shows the athlete that you understand them and it helps build confidence for the rest of the race. As for running, if you’re thinking “they won’t need that” then you ought to include that in the aid station provisions.  Runners LOVE you when you utilize their suggestions to boost your stock. And, 1-mile increments are the BEST. Of course, they may not need something every mile, but your efforts will not go unnoticed by the athletes.  Give it to them!!

What is the biggest race-directing mistake? And what did you learn from the experience?  

Minimal and erratic race signage. Most athletes don’t think properly while racing so, you HAVE to provide numerous and CONSISTENT race materials on the course. If you don’t, you’ll have a mess on your hands. MARK THE COURSE!!!  I want to help, that’s why I’m in the process of creating a Race Director’s Certification Course.

How damaging was COVID to your events?  

Ugh!! We went from 20 races down to 9 during Covid.  I didn’t think we were gonna make it; lots of praying. However, my coaching services kept us afloat; many Folks NEEDED that kind of direction during that time.  So, we were lucky and are very grateful to still be doing what we do.

Have you had to pivot anything in your business to adapt to a post-COVID world?  

Nope, we just kept plugging along following all of the guidelines by County, State and the CDC.

There is talk of a recession this year, wondering if you’re seeing signs of it in your events?  

Our event registration is going very well; Tonia has done a beautiful job with our marketing and it’s showing.  We’re blessed to be ahead already with sign-ups; especially the Cassadaga Kids Triathlon!!

What does the sponsorship landscape look like for your events? Is it similar to before COVID? different?  

We have been working hard to support our sponsors; and, as a result, they are LOVING us for it!!  A good example is the Litchfield Hills Triathlon in New Hartford, CT. They just LOVE us!! We promote the crap out of them, and of course, the larger sponsorships get the most press. However, we make it a point to honor EVERY single one of them as best we can pre and post-event.

What do the demographics of your races today look like v.s. When you started?

The largest age-group(s) remain the same…M35-39 and W45-49.  And, then most incredible statistic is that we have a nearly 50-50 split when it comes to  Male/Female.  Not sure why, but women feel good/safe at our events; perhaps it’s my desire to keep “attitude” of the events reflective of support, care and encouragement.  This has been true at our newest event, too, the Findley Lake Triathlon Festival.  Regardless, we’re honored that so many women feel compelled to race with us.

In your opinion, what is the current "state of the sport?”

It’s re-building; there are now more grassroots/independent companies getting into the sport.  Ironman should NOT be the finish line; without companies like Wilson Endurance Sports they will NOT survive.  It’s like training, you need the BASE to race well; without it, you’ll crumble.  Same thing with event production; Ironman NEEDS us.

What are your fundamental principles for running a successful event in 2023? 

I have to be happy with my work and the people around me; I love Tonia. We are 50-50 Partners in WES.  I told her that I need her to know that what she does is just as important as what I do.  So, it all begins there; then, we spread that love to the athletes who train/race with us…helping them understand and FEEL how important they are to us.  Lastly, that underlying vibe goes out to all of the businesses and local authorities that welcome/support us; they are the icing on the cake.  We are truly blessed to earn a living at something so fun; long live triathlon.