Greetings and Happy New Year!

 

As we begin this new year and new triathlon season, I need to ask you for your help.  We are facing what I would call a crisis in the sport in the state of Louisiana.  With the departure of Stan Cadow from Baton Rouge, we now anly have two active USAT Officials in the state, Ginger McVicar in Boisser City and me in Lake Charles.  What that means to each of you is that I will have to "import" officials from Texas for your events.  This will mean higher costs fo you.

 

The long range solution for this problem is to train more officials from our state.  The process is quite simple, but you will have to get involved if we are to be successful.  What I need you to do is put out the word to local clubs, shops, etc that we are recruiting USAT Officials.  I will come to your race the day before and hold a 4 hour clinic.  After the clinic, the newly trained officials will officiate for your race (at no charge) under my supervision.  They will then serve as officials for two more races at no charge under the supervision of a certified official.  Upon successful completion of these requirements, they will be certified and available to work your races as well as races throughout the region.

 

Who will make a good official?  Anyone who is interested in the sport - competitors, non-competitors, friends, relatives, young and old.  Someone who enjoys the experience that only multi-sport events can offer.  Someone who is ready to give back to the sport.

 

The sport really needs your help!!  The USAT Officials program needs your help!  I need your help!

 

If you are interested in hosting a clinic and recruiting new officials - PLEASE CALL ME AT 337-794-3928 OR REPLY TO THIS E-MAIL!!

THANKS FOR YOUR DEDICATION TO THE SPORT OF TRIATHLON!!
--
Dean Ford
USAT Officials Coordinator
South Mid-West (South)