Evaluation of 1000 French young triathletes : the Tri-Eval Programme Towards a policy of talent detection ?
Georges CAZORLA (1) and Pierre HOUSEAUX (2)
(1) Faculty of sport sciences and physical education, victor Segeilen University, Bordeaux 2
(2) French triathlon federation
In 1996, with the aim of better controlling the development of young triathletes ' capacities, the French Triathlon Federation has set up a battery of evaluation tests intended for trainers and technical managers, in collaboration with the Victor Segalen Bordeaux 2 University [1].
Through the evaluation of 251 girls (G) and 733 boys (B) aged 12-18 years, every test of the battery is now accompanied by the first national norms drawn by age and sex (tables 1 and 2).
Besides statistics, an enquiry has been led among these young triathletes, regarding the number of years in training, weekly training sessions and also distances covered in each of the selected disciplines (swimming, cycling, running) during summer and winter.
The analysis of the results helps having a precise idea of training methods in the various regions of France and to better understand the development of some of the capacities evaluated.
At last, the tests and measurements results have enabled us to establish tables from which trainers and young athletes can draw their own capacities «profile » by themselves and thus find out their strengths and weaknesses in order to efficiently adapt their training .
This tool may enable F.F.TRI. to detect and follow the development of young hopes and to add talent detection and education to their sport policy.
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