Olympic star turns his attention to fashion

Meet Tyler Butterfield clothes designer.

But don’t book tickets for New York’s Fashion Week to his latest designs.

The former pro cyclist and two-time Olympic triathlon competitor has signed a two-year deal with Panache Cyclewear as a design consultant and athlete.

As a design consultant, Butterfield will take an active part in product development and design in Panache Cyclewear’s triathlon line.

The cycling apparel company is based in Butterfield’s US home base of Boulder, Colorado.

Being in the same city as Panache Cyclewear, will allow Butterfield to collaborate day-to-day on high-end designs for the premium cycling brand. 

Amazing

Butterfield said: “I couldn’t be more excited about being on board with Panache. The products are amazing. 

“The brand was created by a former pro cyclist, and you can really tell by the fit and quality. 

“I’ve gotten to know the crew there since living in Boulder, and they’re a great group of guys that I’m really looking forward to working with.” 

In addition to outfitting Butterfield, Panache will supply identical kits to Team Tokio, the Bermuda age-group triathlon team that shares Butterfield’s title sponsor, Tokio Millennium Re Ltd.

Panache founder and CEO Don Powell said: “We are excited to partner with Tyler for several reasons — he’s a great guy.  He has style. 

“He’s fast and has been successful at the highest level, including the Olympic Games.  He’s very passionate and detail oriented when it comes to his equipment and clothing.  A perfect fit, really. 

“Our shared goal with Tyler is to redefine and create some cool, fast tri kits that look great and win races.”

Powell founded Panache in 2008. Using his experience.

He will wear Panache for the 2013 and 2014 triathlon seasons at each race and cycling training rides. Butterfield will begin his 2013 triathlon season at Abu Dhabi International Triathlon on March 2. 

Following the Abu Dhabi race, he’ll compete at the Ironman Asia-Pacific Championship in Melbourne on March 24 with hopes of qualifying for October’s Ironman World Championship in Kona.