The Deputy Chief Minister admits the financial impact of cancelling this year’s event on the Waterfront will be vast – particularly when combined with the shortages already experienced as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
The government sets aside up to £250,000 a year to bring SLT to the Island, providing a return of over £500,000 through tourism and event business contracts.
Farnham said: ‘Super League Triathlon has become a really important sporting event for our calendar and contributes significantly to the economy deep into the shoulder months. In addition, the inspirational work that the Super League athletes do with the community, especially young people, will be missed.
‘We get a very good return on our investment and it generates thousands of visitor bed nights. And of course it promotes Jersey as a really great destination and a top class destination to host major sporting events.
He added: ‘We don’t budget for economic benefits derived from events, although the financial impact of Covid in Jersey is going to be significant. When taken in context it will impact our visitor economy, which is going to need all the help it can get throughout the winter. We have to ensure that the infrastructure is in place to take advantage of our recovery, which will begin soon.
In a bid to maintain a community spirit without an event which usually attracts thousands to Elizabeth Marina, SLT officials are calling on Islanders to contribute to a 20,000km swimming, running, walking and cycling target from 1-20 September. If that mark is reached, SLT Jersey sponsors RBC will donate £20,000 to Mind Jersey.
