From Destruction to Protection: The Story Behind Cal Tri Events' "Divine Intervention" Promise

In October 2024, Hurricane Helene left more than 230 dead across six states, making it the second deadliest storm to hit the mainland United States in more than 50 years — behind Hurricane Katrina.

When 2024 Cal Tri Charlotte, scheduled for October 5, was unexpectedly canceled, the Cal Tri Events team reflected on what it meant to truly take care of their athletes — not just when things went right, but especially when they didn't.

The Divine Intervention Refund Policy

Out of that moment came something new: the Divine Intervention Refund Policy. Announced in November 2024 and put into effect immediately.

If an entire Cal Tri Events race is canceled due to an "Act of God" (natural disaster, accident, or other incident outside of human control) by either Cal Tri Events or the municipal authority, then registered participants will be automatically refunded their full registration fee.

Cal Tri Events absorbs the cost — 2% of the registration fee — so that athletes would not be left out of pocket.

As Cal Tri Events CEO Thom Richmond put it:

"Our athletes have reached out in high numbers to express their gratitude and delight in the policy. It's clear that when you give people choice and protection, they feel seen and respected."

The Broader Impact

In August 2025, USA Triathlon also reversed its long-standing no-refund stance when its 2025 Sprint & Paratriathlon National Championships in Milwaukee were canceled due to extreme flooding — a positive step toward industry-wide athlete protections.

Cal Tri Events' Divine Intervention Policy remains one of the most athlete-protective policies in the triathlon industry. Combined with free race transfers, deferrals, and participant transfers, it reflects the Cal Tri Events commitment to putting athletes first in every decision.