In case you hadn't heard, WTC/Ironman has announced their new Ironman Access program - see it here: http://bit.ly/brUkLS
From everything I'm seeing in the triathlon world, the sentiment is a resounding "Are you kidding me?". Sure, when you own the name and the access, you can charge whatever you want. But isn't being an Ironman special enough? Now you want us to buy into the hype with a $1000 ANNUAL FEE for a few things like early registration, a special ID card, and a few VIP passes? And I still have to pay the full fee for $550 to race?
I know WTC is owned by Providence Equity Corporation, and are a for-profit company. They took a risk buying the name and rights, and - for the most part - have done a good job promoting the sport in general and their events in particular. They have raised their profits through strategic partnerships, sponsorships and the like. I don't deny them the right to a profit, but at what expense? But with the advent of the 5i50 series, are they diluting the brand? And with the Ironman Access program, are they going to drive participants to other IM-length but non-IM brand events? I have already heard some grumblings from fellow triathletes that they may walk away from the IM-branded events in favor of other organizers (Rev3 seems to be a popular choice).
As always, time will tell if this is a great idea, or a decision WTC will regret. As for now (and the foreseeable future), I'll remain a non-VIP, no-access triathlete.
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