Australia’s leading sports retailer, Decathlon has confirmed a 35% increase in overall website visitors, as Australians are inspired to try the new sports they are watching on TV.
Skateboarding has seen the biggest increase in interest, with product searches up 54%. 14-year-old, Arisa Trew made Olympic history as she skated to Olympic Gold earning her the title of Australia’s youngest-ever Olympic champion.
Another 14-year-old skateboarder, Chloe Covell may have fallen short of a medal but she won the hearts of the nation as she showcased her skills. Decathlon research shows skateboarding to be one of the most underrepresented sports among Australian primary kids with only 3% regularly participating, but this could be set to change.
Sailing products have also seen a 30% spike in interest as Australian viewers followed two-time world champion and Olympic titleholder, Matt Wearn’s quest for Olympic glory.
Decathlon Australia CEO, Romain Gravigny said, “Everyone can reap the benefits of sport, both mentally and physically. We love seeing the impact major competitions and their respective athletes have in inspiring everyday Australians to get out there and give it a go themselves. Our aim is to make sporting equipment as accessible to as many people as possible, so everyone can play.”
Some of the least represented sports among younger children include archery (2.8%), skateboarding (3%), table tennis (4.1%), volleyball (1.6%) and kayaking (0.9%).
In response, Decathlon has launched Playgrounds to Podiums, giving away $100,000 of sporting equipment to primary schools across the country to give more people access to more sports, and ensure the next generation of athletes are prepared to win big.