A significant gain in ITU's television reach in 2010 from the Dextro Energy Triathlon ITU World Championship Series underscores triathlon's continued growth, officials claimed.

This increase was achieved despite airing one less event in 2010 compared to 2009.

In all 556 hours of ITU's events aired in 2010, up from 350 hours in 2009, according to the research carried out by Upsolut, ITU's organisation and marketing partner for the World Championship Series, in conjunction with IFM Sports.

Television contacts also rose dramatically with 323-million per event in 2010 compared to 262-million contacts per event in 2009.

"People are drawn to triathlon because it's exciting, looks spectacular on television and is a true lifestyle sport that is within everyone's grasp, regardless of age or gender," said Marisol Casado, ITU President.

"Through increased television audiences and unprecedented participation at all levels, we can see that people relate to triathlon, which fuels the sport's continual growth."

Other highlights include triathlon being broadcast in 149 countries, live in 24 countries, 728,000 spectators on site and 21,000 competitors in mass-participation races.

In 2011, ITU's seven World Championship Series events will be broadcast live to a worldwide audience.

Next year's Series will include the official test event for the London 2012 Olympic Games on August 6-7 and will conclude with the Grand Final in Beijing - site of the 2008 Olympic Games - on September 10-11.

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