On, the Swiss shoe and sportswear giant, has launched its own Triathlon Academy in a bid to produce ‘the next generation of champions’.
The new academy – described as ‘a pioneering initiative’, was officially unveiled on Tuesday in partnership with cycling brand Canyon and swimsuit specialist sailfish.
The project aims to provide a select group of young triathletes with what it describes as ‘unparalleled access to resources, support and a pressure-free environment, allowing them to focus on reaching their full potential’.
Who are the On Triathlon Academy athletes?
Tuesday’s announcement also revealed the names of the first four young triathletes joining the Academy:
Australia’s Aspen Anderson topped the podium at the 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games while US prodigy Jimena De La Peña was runner-up at the 2023 Junior World Championship.
Another medallist at the 2023 Junior Worlds, Mathis Beaulieu of Canada, already boasts four Elite victories on his resumé while China’s Canyu Liu, the 2024 Asian Youth champion, is another exciting young talent.
These athletes will receive financial support, training camps, gear and will benefit from the programme for two years, which is extendable for a further two years depending on age. When athletes turn 23, they transition out of the academy.
A further two athletes are set to be added to the programme in 2026, but numbers will be limited to ensure they receive the best support possible.
The group will also be mentored, in part by WTCS and Olympic legend Javier Gomez, and will also receive access to psychologists, nutritionist and other specialised staff.
Supporting young triathletes
The Academy has been set up to to support young triathletes with the challenges faced by professionals – including the financial burden of the sport, the pressures of international competition, and the long-term commitment required to reach the top.
To do this, the entity plans to provide a holistic approach to athlete development through physical training, technical skills and a personal growth – all within a safe and inclusive environment.
“As a former professional triathlete, I know firsthand the challenges young athletes face on their journey to the top,” said Olivier Bernhard, former professional triathlete and co-founder of On.
“With the On Triathlon Academy, we’re not just providing gear and funding; we’re creating a supportive community where these athletes can develop their skills and achieve their dreams without unnecessary pressure. This is about investing in the future of triathlon and empowering the next generation of champions.”
“We have a long-standing commitment to helping triathletes achieve remarkable results. By powering On’s Triathlon Academy, we’re building on that legacy to support these four talented young athletes on their journey to representing their countries at the 2028 Olympics. At Canyon, our mission is to ‘Inspire to Ride,’ and through this initiative, we hope to spark a deeper passion for triathlon and encourage more people to embrace an active lifestyle,” said Canyon CEO Nicolas de Ros Wallace.
“When On first approached us with the idea of establishing an Academy to support young triathletes and provide them with the opportunity to fully dedicate themselves to the sport, we didn’t hesitate for a second. sailfish is incredibly proud to offer four talented athletes the chance to pursue their dreams as part of the On Triathlon Academy, empowering them to unlock their full potential,” said sailfish Founder and CEO Jan Sibbersen.
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