Woolworths  XTRI 2019 - Present

Executive Summary

The Woolworths XTRI Series is a premier off-road triathlon event in South Africa, promoting both physical wellness and social development through active fundraising initiatives. Since 2019, Access Management has served as the event’s delivery partner, playing a pivotal role in transforming the series into a nationally recognised sporting event. In 2021, Access led the strategic decision to commercialise the series and expand its footprint across the country - unlocking long-term sustainability and growth.

Challenge

  • Delivering a high-quality, multi-location off-road triathlon series with consistent operational standards
  • Securing full legal compliance and permits across various municipalities
  • Ensuring alignment with Woolworths’ brand values and CSR objectives
  • Expanding the event from a regional initiative to a national platform
  • Building a commercial model to sustain and scale the series
  • Driving participation growth while maintaining a high-quality athlete experience

Solution

Access implemented a comprehensive service model tailored to the needs of a national triathlon series:

National Event Planning & Management

  • Delivered consistent planning and execution across multiple locations
  • Maintained operational excellence with strict adherence to timelines and quality standards

Regulatory Compliance & Licensing

  • Secured all necessary permits and ensured full compliance with local regulations
  • Liaised with municipal and provincial authorities to ensure smooth approvals

Collaborative Event Delivery

  • Worked in close coordination with Woolworths' internal support teams
  • Ensured seamless integration of brand objectives with operational delivery

Innovative Athlete Experience

  • Designed engaging athlete journeys and touchpoints
  • Introduced creative elements that enhanced participant enjoyment and event memorability

Growth & Expansion Strategy

  • Led the series' national rollout in 2021, significantly increasing geographic reach
  • Attracted a broader participant base through targeted marketing and partnership activations

Commercialisation & Sponsorships

  • Secured key commercial sponsors to boost financial viability
  • Built a scalable revenue model based on sponsorship, ticket sales, and brand activations

Marketing & Revenue Generation

  • Devised and executed strategic marketing campaigns
  • Increased awareness and drove registration growth through digital and grassroots outreach

Stakeholder & Supplier Management

  • Established strong supplier relationships to ensure quality and consistency
  • Managed all stakeholder communication and logistics

Operational Resourcing

  • Provided end-to-end operational support aligned with the series’ developmental roadmap

Results

Access Management’s partnership has delivered measurable success:

  • National Recognition: Transformed XTRI into a widely respected, nationally recognised event series
  • Commercial Growth: Successfully launched a commercial model supporting long-term sustainability
  • Event Expansion: Enabled geographic rollout across South Africa, reaching new participant segments
  • Participant Satisfaction: Delivered memorable athlete experiences that improved event retention and loyalty
  • Brand Alignment: Ensured all events reflected Woolworths’ brand values and community engagement priorities

Conclusion

Through strategic leadership, operational excellence, and collaborative delivery, Access Management has elevated the Woolworths XTRI Series from a regional initiative to a flagship national event. Their role in commercialising and scaling the series reinforces Access’s reputation as a trusted partner in delivering high-impact, purpose-driven sporting experiences across South Africa.

Get in touch with us

We’re ready to chat and bring your event to life

Email:
info@accessmanagement.co.za
Address:
First Floor, The Iron Works,
Ravenscraig St, Woodstock,
Cape Town, 7925

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