FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE By Jose Villalpando 11/15/2024
US Performance Center and USA Triathlon Expand Partnership to Support Olympic Pathway and Elite World Athlete Development
Charlotte, NC — [November 15, 2024] – The United States Performance Center is proud to announce its expanding partnership with USA Triathlon, further cementing Charlotte’s reputation as a leading hub for world-class athletic training and development. This partnership will allow AUXO Collective athletes to utilize USPC’s state-of-the-art facilities and benefit from advanced sports medicine, recovery protocols, and performance research, ensuring they have the resources needed to excel on the global stage.
The AUXO Collective, led by two-time Olympic medalist and 2019 World Champion Katie Zaferes, provides athletes with a comprehensive training environment in North Carolina. While based in Cary, NC, the collaboration with US Performance Center in Charlotte ensures access to industry-leading resources, including cutting-edge sports science, strength and conditioning, nutrition, and recovery protocols. These tools are vital in helping athletes achieve their full potential on the world stage.
PARIS, FRANCE – SEPTEMBER 02: Silver medalist, Carson Clough of Team United States, looks on after crossing the finish line in the Men’s PTS4 Para Triathlon on day five of the Paris 2024 Summer Paralympic Games at Pont Alexandre III on September 02, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)
A Paralympic Success Story: Carson Clough
One athlete who embodies the impact of US Performance Center’s facilities and resources is Carson Clough, a para-triathlete who began training at USPC in 2022. After overcoming a life-altering accident that resulted in a below-the-knee amputation, Clough’s determination and access to US Performance Center’s unparalleled training environment propelled him to success. He earned a silver medal in the men’s PTS4 triathlon at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, a testament to the resilience and potential nurtured within USPC’s programs.
PARIS, FRANCE – SEPTEMBER 02: Gold medalist Alexis Hanquinquant of Team France (C), Silver medalist Carson Clough of Team United States (L) and Bronze medalist Nil Riudavets Victory of Team Spain (R) pose for a photo during the Men’s PTS4 Para Triathlon Medal Ceremony on day five of the Paris 2024 Summer Paralympic Games at Pont Alexandre III on September 02, 2024 in Paris, France. (Photo by Tasos Katopodis/Getty Images)
A Growing Legacy for Charlotte and US Performance Center:
This partnership exemplifies US Performance Center’s mission to elevate athletic excellence and enhance Charlotte’s standing as a hub for international sports.
“This partnership with USA Triathlon is a powerful reminder of the potential we have to help athletes chase their dreams and build their legacy,” said Ike Belk, Co-Owner and Founder of US Performance Center. “As we continue to work with national governing bodies like USA Triathlon, we are creating a space in Charlotte where world-class athletes can train, recover, and thrive. It’s special to be part of their journey and to witness the lasting impact this collaboration will have on the community and the global sports movement.”
The partnership between USA Triathlon and US Performance Center expands the growing home of athletes striving for greatness, ensuring they have access to the tools and support they need to achieve success on and off the field.
Looking ahead:
Charlotte has emerged as premier global sports city, the partnership between US Performance Center and USA Triathlon underscores the region’s commitment to fostering the development of Olympic and Paralympic athletes. From the AUXO Collective to individual success stories like Carson Clough’s, this collaboration is laying the foundation for a future where Charlotte becomes synonymous with excellence in athletic performance and innovation.
About the United States Performance Center:
The US Performance Center, located on the UNC Charlotte campus, is a premier facility dedicated to fostering athletic excellence. Through cutting-edge sports science, performance testing, and a strong network of partnerships with National Governing Bodies (NGBs), US Performance Center has become a hub for top athletes seeking to elevate their performance. US Performance Center is committed to expanding its impact on sports tourism and athlete development both locally and nationally.
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. For more information, visit www.usatriathlon.org.
For more information, contact:
Jose Villalpando
Marketing and PR Director
US Performance Center
Jose@usperformancecenter.com