BTA HQ have informed us that the Handbook for 2001 is now available and should shortly be with the membership. If you're not a member and want a copy it will cost you £6 from BTA HQ, PO Box 26, Ashby-de-la-Zouch, Leicestershire LE65 2ZR

It's also interesting to note that a recent discussion on the eGroup about the "equality" questions on the BTA membership form has been rapidly answered by the following statement:

The membership scheme to join the BTA is currently also being used to monitor the ethnic backgrounds of participants attracted to triathlon and duathlon.

There have been a number of comments relating to the information requested on the BTA membership form and specifically as to why this information has been requested. The new form asks members to provide information on their ethnic origin, gender, and also to notify whether they are registered as disabled.

An effective equal opportunities policy necessitates the collection of information about members to assess the number of people from various backgrounds who are involved within the sport.

The BTA would like to stress that all information will be confidential and is used for statistical purposes only. The data will be used to assess the current situation so that measures to address any imbalances may be taken if necessary.

"All national governing bodies funded by the government are required to ask this information, and to produce and implement an Equity Policy. As an organisation that is committed to ensuring triathlon is a sport for all, and one which depends on government funding, we hope that our members will support this equal opportunities practice. For those members who are opposed to providing this information there is no obligation to complete this part of the form" stated Carole Billington-Ray.

If anyone would like more information on the BTA Equity Policy please email Carole at carolebillington-ray@britishtriathlon.co.uk or call the BTA HQ.