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USA Triathlon Foundation Honors Donor Dave Alexander as USA Triathlon Lifetime Champion

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by USA Triathlon

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The USA Triathlon Foundation and USA Triathlon today, Sept. 22, announced that Dave Alexander, founder of the TriDave Legacy Trust and one of the most influential figures in multisport, has been named a USA Triathlon Lifetime Champion. The prestigious honor recognizes Alexander’s decades-long devotion to the sport as an athlete, philanthropist, and champion for the next generation of triathletes.

“Dave Alexander embodies what it means to be a true champion of our sport,” said Victoria Brumfield, USA Triathlon CEO. “His lifelong dedication as both an athlete and a philanthropist has not only advanced triathlon but has also opened doors for countless athletes to discover their potential. Dave’s generosity and vision will continue to inspire future generations, and we are proud to honor him as a USA Triathlon Lifetime Champion.”

A lifelong competitor, Alexander has completed more than 500 multisport races worldwide, including nearly 300 triathlons in 37 countries. His passion for triathlon has shaped not only his life but also the lives of countless others who have been inspired by his story and generosity.

Transformational Philanthropy

Through the TriDave Legacy Trust, Alexander has made an unprecedented impact on the multisport community. In 2024, he made the single largest gift in USA Triathlon history — $2.35 million — to advance women’s collegiate triathlon on its path to becoming a full NCAA Championship sport. To date, the Trust has contributed more than $3.27 million to grow triathlon at all levels.

Alexander has also championed innovative programs that introduce youth and young adults to the sport, including:

  • Scouting America Multisport Merit Badge
  • USA Kids Tri Arizona presented by the TriDave Legacy Trust
  • Support of the NCAA Women’s Triathlon Emerging Sport for Women initiative

In recognition of Alexander’s extraordinary commitment, the USA Triathlon Foundation annually presents THE ALEXANDER Award to an outstanding women’s collegiate triathlete who excels not only on the triathlon race course but also demonstrates exemplary achievements in academics and community service.

“Dave Alexander’s impact on the sport of triathlon is immeasurable,” said Jason Rizzi, USA Triathlon Foundation Chief Development Officer. "Through his vision, generosity, and belief in the power of multisport, Dave has inspired youth and created opportunities for collegiate women that will shape triathlon for generations. Honoring him as a USA Triathlon Lifetime Champion is a fitting tribute to a leader whose legacy will forever be intertwined with the growth of our sport.”

Alexander’s vision for the future of triathlon has been strengthened through his partnership with six-time IRONMAN World Champion Mark Allen, who serves as a Champion Ambassador for the USA Triathlon Foundation.

“Dave Alexander is, in my opinion, one of the greatest triathletes of all time because greatness is not just about a fast time or a top place in a race. It’s measured by the challenges overcome and the dreams fulfilled,” Allen said. “Dave is THE living example of this. But more important than his personal journey that has inspired countless athletes for decades is his work to create those same opportunities for others for years to come. It is my honor to work alongside Dave to help bring these dreams alive.”

Together, they are advancing opportunities for athletes at every level and ensuring that multisport continues to thrive. Alexander’s impact on the sport will be felt for generations to come.

About USA Triathlon Foundation 

The USA Triathlon Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and the charitable arm of USA Triathlon. With its mission to transform lives through sport by providing opportunities to swim, bike and run, the Foundation serves to generate a greater impact on the multisport community through charitable giveback and grants that advance the Foundation’s three pillars: (1) Encourage youth participation; (2) Inspire pathways to access and inclusion; and (3) Ignite Olympic/Paralympic dreams. Since the Foundation was established in 2014, it has impacted the lives of thousands by providing grants to organizations and individuals in pursuit of its mission and pillars to create a healthier United States through triathlon. To learn more about the Foundation and get involved, please visit usatriathlonfoundation.org.

About USA Triathlon 

USA Triathlon is proud to serve as the National Governing Body for triathlon, as well as duathlon, aquathlon, aquabike, winter triathlon, off-road triathlon, paratriathlon, and indoor and virtual multisport events in the United States. Founded in 1982, USA Triathlon sanctions more than 3,500 events and races and connects with and supports more than 300,000 unique active members each year, making it the largest multisport organization in the world. In addition to its work at the grassroots level with athletes, coaches, and race directors — as well as the USA Triathlon Foundation — USA Triathlon provides leadership and support to elite athletes competing at international events, including World Triathlon World Championships, Pan American Games and the Olympic and Paralympic Games.