Baker, a partner in DLA Piper's corporate and financial practice which involves public and private mergers, and which focuses on the sports sector as well as media and entertainment, is an experienced age-group triathlete.

He has also regularly represented buyers and sellers of franchises in professional American sports leagues.

USA Triathlon President Bob Wendling said: "We are excited that Chuck Baker is joining USA Triathlon's Board of Directors.

"As a lawyer and a respected mergers and acquisitions specialist in sports, media and entertainment, Chuck has the background and experience that the Board needs to strengthen our legal and financial capabilities.

"Our sport is rapidly becoming a force in the business and entertainment industry, and Chuck will play a key role in providing the required vision for the Board and, ultimately, the entire organisation."

Baker is also an executive officer and chairman of the New York Leukaemia & Lymphoma Society Board of Trustees and a member of the March of Dimes Sports Committee.

Baker has been a participant in competitive triathlon for the last five years and has two sons with whom he enjoys multisport training.

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]