In Entrepreneur Magazine Rijssen-Holten No. 5, there is extensive focus on the Holten Triathlon. See below for the display of the article.
The unifying power of the Holten Triathlon
What began as a sporting challenge for enthusiasts of swimming, cycling, and running has grown into one of the largest events in the region. Anita Brinks, chairwoman of the Holten Triathlon, enthusiastically talks about the success of the event and its impact on the community. Annually, more than 2300 participants and 15,000 visitors are drawn to the Salland village. Anita has been involved with the Holten Triathlon since 1985. Her father was one of the founders of the event. “I literally grew up with the Triathlon,” says Anita with a smile. “From a young age, I helped as a volunteer and later became involved in the organization. It almost feels like a family business, but one with a very special and social purpose.”
Celebration for everyone
What makes the Holten Triathlon so special is the way the event combines sport and community spirit. It started in 1985 with 150 participants, and next year they will celebrate the fortieth edition. Anita explains how the Holten Triathlon is so much more than just a race: “We care for everyone involved. Whether it’s the athletes preparing for the world stage or the local volunteers lending a hand, it’s about creating a place where everyone feels welcome.” Participants come at all levels, including professionals, amateurs, but also G-athletes and para-athletes. But above all, the more than 1000 volunteers play an indispensable role and are celebrated. “We organize a party with a band on Saturday night to thank our volunteers. It’s the perfect conclusion to the day and provides the necessary connection within the community,” says Anita proudly.
Local entrepreneurs
The role of local entrepreneurs is invaluable to the success of the Triathlon. “We have a strong network of sponsors, both from Holten, Rijssen, and surrounding areas. Companies provide sponsorship money, products, or services. It’s wonderful to see how entrepreneurs come together in this event,” explains Anita. “We organize networking events for our sponsors, such as sponsor evenings and surprising gatherings. This ensures that companies feel connected not just to the event but also to each other.”
Vitality
Vitality plays a central role within the organization of the Holten Triathlon. “We encourage organizations to actively participate in the business triathlon and the company run. It’s not only good for the health of their employees but also for sustainable employability within their companies,” says Anita. “Additionally, we want to connect companies, for example, by recommending personal trainers or triathlon coaches. This contributes to the vitality and well-being of their employees. It’s not only the sporting challenge but also an important contribution to the health and vitality of the region that we find important. Entrepreneurs may still learn from our approach. It’s about enthusiasm, collaboration, and promoting an active lifestyle. With that, every company can benefit.”
Ambitions for the future
With the fortieth edition next year in sight, the Holten Triathlon continues to develop. Anita is proud of what she has built with the six other board members, block leaders, and other volunteers, but she also looks forward to the future. “We always want to keep innovating. We make adjustments every year. For instance, this year we changed the transition area. We want to continue growing and improving, not only for the athletes but also for the volunteers,” she says. Although the withdrawal of the subsidy of 60,000 euros from the province of Overijssel for the period 2025-2027 is a challenge, the Holten Triathlon remains optimistic. “We work hard to retain our sponsors and attract new ones. Fortunately, we still have many enthusiastic volunteers supporting us. With them, we have laid a strong foundation and look to the future with confidence,” says Anita.
Participate
As chairwoman, Anita is not only passionate about the sport but also about the opportunities the Holten Triathlon offers to entrepreneurs. “Participating in the business triathlon is a great way to promote team building, support the vitality of your employees, and connect with other businesses,” says Anita enthusiastically. “It’s not only a sporting challenge but also an investment in your company and your team. As an entrepreneur, you can not only achieve business success but also make a social impact. I challenge them to experience the power of our great event for themselves.”
The Holten Triathlon will be organized this year on June 20th and 21st.
