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Published February 20, 2012

Triathlon America launches retailer certification program • Seattle Bike supply appoints two new sales reps

SAN DIEGO, CA (BRAIN) Feb 20, 15:40 MT—Triathlon America is offering a certification program for triathlon specialty retail stores. The Triathlon America Certified Retailer program is designed to direct consumers to retailers that have made significant investments in triathlon gear and services, and award stores that are committed to the sport of triathlon.

TA's president, Jack Caress, called the certified retailer program "a badge of honor for specialty stores dedicated to the sport of triathlon.” said Jack Caress, President of Triathlon America.

Triathlon America will award three levels of certification: Gold, Silver and Bronze. Stores that earn Triathlon America Certified Retailer status will receive certified retailer decals for the store and a certification logo that can be used in marketing materials.

Certified triathlon retailers will also be recognized on the Triathlon America website, in press releases announcing their certified retailer status, and at the annual Triathlon America Conference.

Triathlon stores interested in receiving certification will be required to fill out a detailed questionnaire evaluating a wide range of products and services, provide photos of the store and complete a short essay. Certification status is good for two years.

The application process is free to Triathlon America members. There is a $100 application fee for non-members. Membership information is available at www.triathlon-america.com.

Seattle Bike supply appoints two new sales reps

KENT, WA (BRAIN) Feb 20, 15:43 MT—Seattle Bike Supply has appointed two new sales reps.

Robert Kittilson has recently started as an inside sales rep after more than 10 years working in the bike industry as a bike messenger, shop wrench, bike messenger, shop wrench, bike fitter and salesperson.

"I'm just really stoked to be working with cutting edge products and to get a chance to help bike shops succeed," said Kittilson, who is originally from the Spokane area and has been in the Seattle area for the last ten years.

Another new hire is Stuart Drake, who comes to SBS with a background in the service industry and in cycling.

Drake at VPD Inc. in Ohio, where I worked in the warehouse picking, packing, and shipping orders to video stores. He also spent four years at The Bike Shop in Aiea, Oahu, where I advanced from mech/sales to become assistant manager, then manager of that location. In the summer of 2010, I moved to the Northwest and got a job as service manager/fitter at Rainier Cycle in Tacoma.
I worked there for just over a year before leaving to join the team at SBS.

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