Weekend warriors - amateur athletics; includes related article on athletic shoes

Black Enterprise, April, 1992 by Oliver Gibbons

"The competition keeps the juices--the hormones or whatever--healthier," adds Martin, founder of Cycling Management Group (CMG), a South Florida-based organization that helps coordinate major cycling races. CMG also wants to get more African-Americans involved in a sportas traditionally attracted few blacks.

Triathlons have attracted even fewer blacks. Mark Sisson, former executive director of the 27,500-member Triathlon Federation of the United States, estimates that African-Americans comprise less than 500 of its members. But that is changing, in part because of Alvin Hartley, who five years ago formed Tri-Masters. The Long Island, New York-based group operates chapters in the New York tri-state area, Chicago, Detroit, Baltimore, Washington, D.C., Los Angeles and Negril.

"Alvin's done a great job. The sport started out as a white, upper-class, eccentric diversion for the iron man. But Alvin is helping change that," says Sisson. "Until recently, we have not had a lot of black members. Alvin is encouraging many people to join."

Tri-Masters is attracting minorities to the sport, in part, by making it affordable. It has gained corporate sponsorships such as Burger King, Speedo, Gatorade and Air Jamaica.

The 37-year-old Hartley also is helping bring the sport to other countries, such as Jamaica. "I want all the Caribbean countries to become a part of the circuit," says Hartley.

Tri-Masters, which boasts a membership of more than 150, does more than just increase its membership and organize meets. Members often go to schools encouraging kids to complete their education and stay off drugs. The message they deliver is simple and based upon the club's motto: "When you try, you can master anything in life." In 1991, the group awarded $6,000 in corporate scholarships and this year will give out almost $8,000 in scholarships.

"The sport helps you improve spiritually and mentally. The bulk of the athletes in the sport are goal-seekers," says Hartley. "The sport is comprised of obstacles. Life is based on obstacles. But, if you focus on the goal of the finish line, you'll be able to complete whatever you set out to do."