Under the agreement, Avis, a bronze level partner of USAT, will offer discounts and other money-saving offers to those involved in aquathons, duathlons, triathlons and other multi-sport competition.

Avis will be provided with significant exposure through signage and giveaways at more than 3,000 different multi-sport events, ranging from grassroots amateur competitions to high profile races nationwide.

It will also gain new customers through advertising in USA Triathlon Life magazine, on USAT's official web site - www.usatriathlon.org - and inclusion in Multisport Zone, USAT's weekly e-newsletter.

"We are dedicated to growing our business by teaming up with organisations that value excellence and exemplify the Avis 'We try harder' spirit," said Thomas M Gartland, executive vice-president of sales, marketing and customer care for Avis Budget Group, Inc.

"We look forward to working with USA Triathlon, the largest multi-sport organisation in the world, and helping their members take part in multi-sport events around the world."

Chuck Menke, marketing and communications director for USA Triathlon, said: ""We are thrilled to welcome Avis as a valued new member of our corporate family and offer our members a way to save on car rental.

"In addition to the quality service and outstanding reputation that Avis has established, our partnership offers exclusive benefits for our members, whether they are travelling to events or taking a family vacation."