Chris Lieto turned a love of triathlons into a charity for the underprivileged

At the height of Chris Lieto's professional triathlon career, the American had just finished second at the Hawaii Ironman World Championships in 2009. He owned a growing stack of race wins and course records, and was known as the fastest cyclist in the sport.

Ironically, although he is now plagued with an Achilles injury that has resulted in a drought of performances for about two years, Lieto is feeling more fulfilled than ever. His source of joy: More Than Sport, a charity that brings the athletic, business and charitable communities together.

He started sowing the seeds in 2010, and the non-profit organisation is now beginning to blossom in impact and reach. Based in Hawaii, where Lieto lives with his family, More Than Sport will make its first major move into Asia next weekend with the Summit Series in Hong Kong. The initiative brings together speakers from the sporting, corporate and philanthropic worlds, to discuss how to live with more passion and purpose in life, and network for future collaborations.

"I've raced a lot in Asia in the past five years; I love the people and the culture," says Lieto, 41."I think Hong Kong is a great point to help raise awareness and need for charities in Asia."

More Than Sport has held a few activities in this region, all in conjunction with races Lieto has competed in. Money raised through donations from race participants and sponsors goes towards funding projects for the local community through collaborations with a local charity.

Lieto has also gathered a team of professional and amateur athletes for hands-on involvement in the projects.