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USMES Elite Athlete Program FAQs

What is the scope of the Elite Athlete Program?

The USMES Elite Athlete Program supports a full spectrum of endurance athletes, including and not limited to athletes participating in triathlon, cycling (road, track, cyclocross, and mountain biking), running and para-athletics.  The program endeavors to support the highest level we realistically can within each discipline.  The program currently supports both men and women, active and veteran, representing all five branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.  The USMES Elite Athlete Program operates on an annual basis, with a new team selected each October, and a competitive season running from January to December.

What is the focus of the USMES Elite Athlete Program?

The focus is to help military athletes who have demonstrated the talent, skills, motivation and work ethic to compete on the national and international stage in endurance sports.  This program is developmental in nature and is about giving those athletes practical opportunities to experience another level of competition, along with mentorship and support.  In some cases, we help transition or “graduate” athletes to a level beyond what we can support (if they desire to pursue a professional career).

The USMES Elite Athlete Program gives athletes an opportunity to experience the realities of a sponsor-supported world.  The program is looking for athletes focused on progression and raising the bar for what they consider success.  Most importantly, our elite athletes are flagship members of USMES who embrace our vision and carry out our mission of building a preeminent community of active and Veteran service members engaged in a healthy lifestyle through endurance sports.

How is the Elite Athlete Program funded, and what level of support is granted?

The Elite Athlete Program is funded entirely through contributions to USMES of either cash or product.  Athletes are provided clothing and product, in some cases equipment will be offered for purchase at a deeply discounted rate.  Additionally, reimbursement is provided for travel and entry fees.  The program does not fully fund or fully support athletes.  It is meant to offset costs athletes incur.  At the highest levels of competition, athletes may also be supported through other avenues, such as the DoD-sponsored World Class Athlete Programs, or USOC NGB national team programs.

Does USMES have a “development” program below the elite level?

USMES has numerous support structures in place for its members, from club purchase deals and team focus events to entry fee reimbursements that are equivalent to or better than what most age group and Category 3-5 athletes would see on their own or through regional or local programs.  USMES focuses on making the club experience as beneficial as possible, especially for those seeking to race frequently and aspire to higher levels.

What do you look for in a selectee and what advice do you have for aspiring USMES Elite Athlete Program members?

We are looking for the best performers on the field of play, the best examples of ambition and discipline, and the best representatives of themselves and the USMES community.

First, we are looking for athletes who are world-class or national-class competitors in their discipline or have demonstrated the capabilities to develop and grow into world or national-caliber athletes.  We also want athletes who are willing to challenge themselves to reach lofty goals beyond what most others, and perhaps themselves, would dare to strive towards. We are thrilled when participation in the Elite Athlete Program unlocks an opportunity or overcomes a barrier to an athlete’s upward trajectory.

We particularly need athletes with the willingness, availability, and desire to be an example and ambassador.  The sponsor-supported world of endurance sports is focused on athletes who are marketable and who are able to balance the demands of military life, athletic excellence, and personal interaction.  We value the athletes who realize that they get more back when they give more to their teammates and supporters.