Your First Sprint Triathlon - Write this Down

Well, it finally happened! I did my first Sprint triathlon this year (October of 2017) and despite only getting 3 - 4 hours of sleep, I can tell you that crossing the finish line was an amazingly motivating feeling after all the hard work I put into it! If you're thinking about doing a sprint, you've come to the right place. Check out my previous blog posts for info on training, shopping for a wetsuit, and most importantly...swimming. In this post, I'll share some tips for race day.

What to Bring:

• Aside from what's recommended/required by the event, check out the following checklist. Only thing I would add is a second set of goggles.

Parking:

• Some events close their parking gates early to get ready for the racers, so arrive early if you bought a parking pass

Race Packet Pickup and the Course:

• Don't forget to bring your ID to pick-up your packet, if grabbing it the day of.

• If you have questions, like where's the bathroom, be sure to ask

• Confirm the course route you'll be running, now that you can see the area. A map of the course will usually be available

Transition Area:

You've heard lots about it and now it's time to join the crowd. Regardless of your goal (race vs finish in one piece), how you set things up will determine the amount of time spent here. Ideally, you wanna be in a out.

• Spots fill up fast so grab one quickly. I recommend somewhere between where you'll be returning from the swim and exiting for the ride/run.

• Make some friends. Talk to your neighbors. It'll take the edge off

• Pay attention to how others are setting up their stuff and follow suit if it looks like a good idea. Basically, lay out your bike/run stuff so it's easy to access. You don't wanna be grabbing things out of your bag during the transition

The Swim:

• Wetsuit: Use a plastic bag to get your arms and legs pulled all the way into your wetsuit to get the best fit. Having it tight across your chest is bad news. Here's a great video on getting the best fit. Remember when I said make friends? Be sure to ask one for help with the last part (pulling across your back).

• Goggles: Use what you've tested and feel comfortable with. If they're old, buy a new pair. You don't want problems or fogging while you're out there.

• Tinted or Clear Goggles?: If it's going to be sunny, I'd go with tinted. Especially if you plan to switch to the backstroke when tired, the sun will more than likely be in your face.

• Starting Line Positioning: Work your way to the left or right side prior to the start. This will keep you from getting tomahawked and trampled by your fellow racers

• Backstroke: Switch to your back when you get tired. I was a little embarrassed when I did, but more people do it than you think.

• Sighting: Don't forget to use sighting to stay on course. Veering off course will cost you time and effort to get back on track.

• Getting Dizzy: Before sprinting out of the water at the end of your swim, quickly make sure you're all good. Just like me, a handful of racers were dizzy and stumbled. I've been told earplugs help. Gatorade and an energy gel also seemed to help.

The Ride:

• Bike Type: Use what you have. Best advice ever. I rode a mtn, bike (and so did quite a few others) and I completed the ride in decent time.

• Shades: Yes, you should absolutely wear glasses. Unless you want to take your chances with bugs, watery eyes and the sun.

• Pace Yourself: You're gonna be excited and tempted to go all out at the start. Pace yourself so you're the one doing the passing more times than getting passed.

• Clip in Shoes: If you plan on wearing em, don't forget at the end of the ride. My wife saw at least a half a dozen riders who forgot (or had trouble) take a serious tumble when trying to un-clip.

The Run:

• Shoes: Wear what's comfortable and even better, what you've been wearing when training. Race day probably isn't the best time to be trying out something new that you haven't been training with already.

• Running Style: Do what's comfortable. As long as what's comfortable doesn't include landing on your heel. Seriously, it's no bueno, don't do it.

• Pace Yourself: Same advice as above, you should definitely pace yourself and if you're gonna pour it on, wait for the last mile, 1/2mi, or quarter. If you're feeling good like I was, you might just pass a few of the ones who passed you during the ride. Big smile.

Finish Line:

At the end of the race, smile for the camera, roll around on the ground and celebrate as you take a breather, and get some nutrients in you. You've earned it and you'll love the feeling!

You probably won't love the feeling of lugging all of your stuff back to the car, but fear not. Flash a smile to your cheering section and explain how the muscles in your face are the only ones that still work and that you need a hand.

Good luck with your next race!