Cultural Barriers to Womens Participation in Triathlons

Womens sporting history differs greatly to that of mens. This is due to their cultural identity and expectations; gender stereotypes; mens dominance over women and ethnic background. Before the 1920's, it was deemed highly inappropriate for women to put foot in any type of sports participation. They were stereotyped as weak, feminine providers for men who belong in the kitchen and nursing rooms. In the 1920's, it was acceptable for women to become 'associate members' in light sports such as shooting, rowing, archery and swimming. It was difficult for women to become elite athletes due to lack of financial support. A triathlon was held in Victoria in 1984. This event offered a prize for both men and women. However, the woman prize winner was given a bicycle; while the male prize winner was given two return flight tickets to Hawaii. Training was an issue for women as well, as they were given only limited use of sporting grounds and facilities.Often they were allocated to certain, insufficient, hours in swimming pools. The rest of the week was open to men only. 


Tides began to change in the 1970's when laws were introduced by the Commonwealth to offer equal opportunity for men and women in sports and end discrimination against women. After this age, womens participation in team sports rose. The Commonwealth Sex Discrimination Act was passed in 1984, where the generation saw sporting grounds and clubs forced to be open full time to women.(Australian Government- Australian Sports Commission. Participating In Sport- History. Online. Available: http://www.ausport.gov.au/participating/women/about/history Accessed 14/11/11) 


However, although time and culture has changed in more recent years, women still do not seem to have the same level of opportunity and success as men in triathlons. Societies views on participation in triathlons and all sports still see men as the dominant sporting heroes and legends over women. Women are stereotypically deemed to be the 'weaker', more 'emotional' vessels. They are seen as being 'maternal' in nature and therefore best equipped to tasks such as caring for and raising a family and supporting a husband. Participating at elite levels in triathlons is often seen as unnecessary for women and a waste of precious time; as it will take them no-where. They aren't stereotypically 'built' for a sporting courier. Men, on the other hand, are naturally physically stronger than women. Therefore competition is at higher levels and is more intense. Society wants to watch good competition in mens ironman series (hence why they call it IronMAN not IronWOMAN competition). They may be interested in womens triathlons... but often just for a laugh or to ogle over their athletic, slim bodies, not admire their skill.


Another barrier that falls under the Cultural level which restricts womens participation on triathlons is, ethnic background. Australia is an extremely multicultural country. This is due to immigrants from all over the world who moved to Australia for its beautiful land; freedom as a nation and work opportunity. etc. Many women of Muslim and Asian (.etc.) ethnics were not taught to swim. Therefore, women who migrate to Australia from such countries may have trouble participating in triathlons due to the swimming leg. It would be an un-safe environment for them to be swimming out in open water. (Triathlon/Multisport:Triathlon Australia. Barriers to participation. (Online) Available: http://www.hreoc.gov.au/racial_discrimination/whats_the_score/pdf/triathlon.pdf)