Solidarity bibs are making their appearance at this year’s Alpe d’Huez Triathlon, but they’re not just any solidarity bibs. Those who will wear them in July become part of the community of “Game Changers”, in other words, triathletes who not only support a cause of solidarity and give meaning to their challenge but also form a group united by shared values and a common state of mind. Meet one of them: Paul Currivan.
Game Changer: a different race number
“My name is Paul Currivan. I’m Irish, and I’ve been living in France for 13 years. I’ve only completed one triathlon so far, in Geneva. I decided to take part in the L race of the Alpe d’Huez Triathlon under the influence of my cousin, who asked me to run it with him. It was only after I’d agreed that I looked at the distance because I was convinced that the Olympic format was the longest. But I was wrong! When I went to register, the race was already full. I then discovered that you could register by choosing a different number, one that supported Aviation Sans Frontière. I liked the win-win logic.“
A challenge: mobilizing friends and family
“The next challenge was to mobilise my wide circle of friends. I asked them to sponsor me by making a very simple agreement with them: if you say yes, I’ll remind you of your commitment until you fulfill it; if you say no, I won’t mention it again. I found that it was more effective to talk first about the association and its activities, and then about my sponsorship request. This was a completely new approach for me because I’d never run with a solidarity bib. When I was younger, I used to look for sponsors, but it’s not the same thing.
Becoming a Game Changer adds extra pressure, but it’s enjoyable. I’ve committed to doing this triathlon and, when I cross the finish line, I’ll be a better version of myself and the charity will be able to develop its work. I feel more determined thanks to this particular bib.”
Advice for Game Changers running a campaign
“If I had to advise other Game Changers who are running their sponsorship campaign, it would be to talk about the charity first. People need to feel concerned and comfortable about the amount to be raised. Propose the lowest amount at the beginning and don’t put the person under pressure to contribute the highest amount. If the person is interested, tell her that you will remind them of her commitment until she makes it. If she’s not interested, don’t insist.“
