Triathlon: David Backer Resigns From USA Triathlon Legal Committee

From: USA Triathlon

Longtime USA Triathlon volunteer David Backer announced March 15 that he is stepping down as co-chair of the USA Triathlon Legal Committee.

Backer, who lives in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, and is a partner in the law firm of Hopkinson, Abbondanza and Backer, says he is leaving to devote more time to his family, his legal practice and his civic commitments, which include serving as a town official in Cape Elizabeth.

Backer competed in his first Ironman Hawaii triathlon in 1982 and has been involved in the sport ever since. He has served USA Triathlon in various volunteer capacities including Board of Directors member, Board secretary, Board president, member of the Doping Control Committee and representative to the U.S. Olympic Committee's Athlete Support Committee.

"I'm sad not to be a part of USAT in the future," Backer said. "Being part of the organization has become such a big part of my identity. It's a difficult thing to walk away from. It's been such a positive affiliation over the years and I have had the opportunity to meet so many creative and dedicated people."

Backer joined the Legal Committee in 1989. As part of the Legal Committee, Backer has done countless hours of pro bono work for USA Triathlon.

"USA Triathlon owes a lot of its growth and development over the last 15 years to David Backer," said USA Triathlon Acting Executive Director Tim Yount. "I will greatly miss him, as will the other members of the staff who worked with him closely."