The open water swimming world, from a perspective of marketing a particular lifestyle, governing the sport, branding an extreme activity, obtaining sponsorship and supporting its athletes, can learn much from the triathlon world.
While commercialization of open water swimming is not the specific focus or desire of many swimmers, the advantages of commercialization are well-known and numerous.
With more sponsorship and media coverage, races in size, number and budgets can grow. This gives more opportunities for open water swimmers of all ages, abilities and backgrounds to enjoy the sport. With growth, race directors can offer more services for athletes, from additional safety boats to onshore massages. With additional financial support, more athletes can be given the opportunity to challenge themselves in more solo swims and relays.
Andrew Messick, the CEO of the World Triathlon Corporation, gave a recent speech that touched upon various points of interest and issue in the triathlon world. Many points have relevance to the growing open water swimming community. Among his various topics, he discusses bringing in additional media interest and new participants into the sport and participation by heroes like Lance Armstrong.
Southern California native, born 1962, is the creator of the WOWSA Awards, Oceans Seven, Openwaterpedia, Citrus Corps, World Open Water Swimming Association, Daily News of Open Water Swimming, Global Open Water Swimming Conference. He is Chief Executive Officer of KAATSU Global and KAATSU Research Institute. Inductee in the International Marathon Swimming Hall of Fame (Honor Swimmer, Class of 2001) and Ice Swimming Hall of Fame (Honor Contributor - Media, Class of 2019), recipient of the International Swimming Hall of Fame's Poseidon Award (2016), International Swimming Hall of Fame's Irving Davids-Captain Roger Wheeler Memorial Award (2010), USA Swimming's Glen S. Hummer Award (2007, 2010) and Harvard University's John B. Imrie Award (1984). Served on the FINA Technical Open Water Swimming Committee and as Technical Delegate with the 2011 Special Olympics World Summer Games, and 9-time USA Swimming coaching staff. Note: WOWSA only recommends products or services used or recommended by the community. WOWSA does not receive compensation for links or products mentioned on this site or in blog posts. If it does, it will be indicated clearly on that specific post. See WOWSA's privacy policy for more information.