In a sport that has led the way in equality in many respects the inequality that continues to exist at the professional level is a blemish on Triathlon's record. Inequality at the professional level is bad for all levels of sport, from amateur to elite.

Fewer elite women are able to compete on the world stage. This has implications on how women can represent themselves, represent their sponsors and obtain media coverage at the two biggest events in long distance triathlon. Simply put, earning a living from the sport is not currently a level playing field for the professional men and women.

Inequality at the pinnacle of the sport has repercussions for all levels of triathlon. It sends a message that Ironman is more of a man’s sport. It tells young girls watching the NBC coverage that maybe triathlon is not for them, that maybe they “cannot” do it. How do you explain to an 7-year-old that it is okay for there to be only 35 women on the Kona start line but 50 men? With difficulty.

We ask for your support in our quest to obtain equal slots for the professional men and professional women at the world championships. Please sign our petition to show the World Triathlon Corporation that equality matters to everyone.