About Us

The Columbia Triathlon Association was initially founded in 1983 when a small group of 90 triathlon enthusiasts signed up to participate in the inaugural, signature event, The Columbia Triathlon, which took place in the Spring of 1984.  Early on, CTA's Founder, and 6-time Ironman Kona finisher, Robert Vigorito had a vision to produce endurance events, especially triathlons, at the highest possible levels of challenge, safety, and integrity, and to make lasting and positive contributions to participating athletes, to the sport of triathlon, and to our community at large.


TriColumbia/CTA Founder, Robert Vigorito (retired as of December 31, 2012)
Celebrating Another Ironman World Championship Finish

Since those early days CTA, also known as TriColumbia, has grown to be widely regarded as the Mid-Atlantic’s premier endurance event production company which provides an array of events for all ability levels across the triathlon/multisport continuum.

Our events, including The Ironman 70.3 EagleMan Triathlon, The Columbia Triathlon and the Iron Girl Columbia Triathlon, attract both professional and amateur athletes from across the globe, and have become staples for many on the professional triathlon circuit. Our ChesapeakeMan Ultra Distance Triathlon has earned the distinction of being named a "Best 140.6 Race" in the March, 2010 issue of Triathlon Magazine and hosts the USAT Mid Atlantic Ultra Distance Championship.

As a non-profit 501(c)(3), TriColumbia not only makes a difference for participating athletes by providing superior events and memories to last a lifetime, but also gives back to our community by supporting many local and regional charities, which provide a full spectrum of support for citizens in need.  TriColumbia donates both in direct contributions as well as by providing fundraising team racing opportunities for charities.  Team in Training, Challenged Athletes Foundation, The Blazeman Foundation for ALS, and The YMCA are among the many charities we support.

Robert Vigorito retired as of December 31, 2012, but his vision carries on, and TriColumbia continues to forward our mission to provide premier endurance events in the Mid-Atlantic region that promote life long health and fitness, while improving the lives of individuals in need by supporting local and regional charities.

Please click on the 2012 Annual Report below to view.

Annual Report