Remembering Valerie Silk: The USA Triathlon Hall of Fame Member Who Revolutionized IRONMAN Triathlon

We at USA Triathlon are deeply saddened by the passing of Valerie Silk, a true pioneer of the sport of triathlon and IRONMAN.  

The sport of triathlon and the IRONMAN World Championships would not be where it is today without Valerie Silk, who was inducted into the USA Triathlon Hall of Fame in 2010.  

As Race Director starting in 1981, Valerie transformed IRONMAN from a 326-person race in Waikiki to the iconic World Championship in Kailua-Kona. She was instrumental in professionalizing the event, elevating its organization and visibility, and helping expand IRONMAN into a global series. In 1986, under her leadership, the IRONMAN World Championship became one of the first sports to award equal prize money to professional men and women, signaling a landmark moment for equality in sport.

She negotiated multi-year sponsorship agreements and network coverage through ABC's Wide World of Sports. She also increased the volunteer base by over 2,500 volunteers and developed merchandising and licensing divisions for IRONMAN products and services. As IRONMAN grew internationally, Silk developed qualifying races in other countries, as well as the IronKids Triathlon Series.

Silk’s legacy will live on in every finish line crossed. We send our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.