Technical Official Spotlight: Loren Hartnett

My path into triathlon officiating wasn’t exactly a straight line. I originally came from an adventure racing background, and the club I was part of GoTri which also had a triathlon section where we’d train together. In 2015, Triathlon Ireland put out a request to clubs to nominate anyone who would be interested in becoming and Technical Official. I put my hand up. That decision led me to my very first assignment as referee at the Boruman Triathlon in Limerick, with Padraig Benson as Technical Delegate. Before that, my one shadow event was the Ennis Duathlon – and from there, I was hooked.

In 2019, I had the chance to officiate at my first international event in Leeds, where I earned my World Triathlon Level 1 qualification. Since then, I’ve been fortunate to work at several international events across Europe, most recently in Zofingen this September.

I joined the Technical Committee in 2020 and stepped into the role of Chair in 2023. Throughout this journey, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside amazing people who continue to inspire me and teach me at every event.

The Technical Committee plays an important role in supporting the development of our sport in Ireland. Chaired by Loren, the Committee operates in an advisory capacity, working closely with the Triathlon Ireland Board and Staff Team.

Key Responsibilities of the Technical Committee:

• Prepare resolutions on amendments to TI Competition Rules for Board approval.
• Advise on the curriculum and examinations for the Triathlon Ireland Technical Official Programme.
• Ensure a clear pathway for the progression of Technical Officials into national and international delegate roles, in partnership with the Event Staff Team.
• Review the impact of proposed international changes on competition and recommend necessary rule changes.
• Provide advice to the Triathlon Ireland Board and Staff Team on technical matters.
• Support the provision of Officials for TI-sanctioned events.
• Promote the welfare and development of Officials.
• Advise on quality assurance processes for officiating at major and national events, including disciplinary procedures.
• Make recommendations on the Technical Official Programme Budget, Strategic Plan, and progress against the Annual Operational Plan.

Through this work, the Technical Committee helps ensure that officiating standards remain strong, consistent, and aligned with best practice both nationally and internationally.