All of us at British Triathlon were deeply saddened to hear of the sudden passing of Ian Pettitt last week and our thoughts go out to his family at this difficult time.

Ian was both a pioneer in triathlon as well as an inspiration, encouraging many people to try the sport and supporting those that were already keen participants. In the nineties he was a very strong Age Group athlete, and with a background in swimming, he also played water polo.  

As the very first employee of the British Triathlon Association, as we were first known, his impact on the sport as it developed and grew in this country was both extensive and hugely influential.  

Working out of a tiny office in Dover, he created the foundations of the Age Group team that exists to this day. As the original GB team manager, Ian created the ethos that brought Britain success on the world stage. More recently, he continued to be one of the driving forces behind Deal Tri.  

British Triathlon joins the many voices across the triathlon community and his family, friends, and loved ones, in celebrating his life and mourning his loss, knowing he will be greatly missed. 

Chair of British Triathlon, Bill James, said: “Ian was one of a generation of the pioneers that brought to life the sport of triathlon here in the UK, and his influence will live on. His legacy and that of his peers is in the hands of all of us that love this sport, I hope we can carry forward the focus, energy and enjoyment that Ian will be remembered for. Our best wishes at this sad time to Ian’s family, friends, clubmates and everyone that was fortunate enough to know him.”