Q. Is there a separate run and bike transition?
A. No, there is only 1 transition area. It is generally set up so that you run in and out on one side and bike in and out on the other side, though occasionally it is set up so you run and bike in on one side and run and bike out on the other side.
Q. How far is transition from the swim?
A. That depends on the venue. At some venues it is as close as 50 feet and others it can be as far as a ¼ mile. Check the swim course map for each venue for the specifics for that venue.
Q. Do you come out the same way as you come in the swim?
A. That depends on the venue. Most of our venues have swims that start and end at completely different locations, however some have the start and exit right next to each other. Check the swim course map for each venue for the specifics for that venue.
Q. When will I be able to access the transition area?
A. Once all competitors have finished the bike course and started the run, the transition area reopens for bike retrieval.
Q. Why do I have to be in the transition area so early if my wave doesn’t start until later in the morning?
A. The transition area closes at the specified times regardless of what wave you are in. All equipment must be in by the appropriate time. In order to ensure the security and safety of our competitors and their equipment, there will be absolutely no exceptions to this rule.
Q. Can I use decorations (balloons, etc.) to indicate where my things are in the transition area?
A. Yes, but they should not interfere with anyone else being able to easily and safely access their equipment. We reserve the right to remove any materials that will interfere with the safety and security of our competitors and their equipment.
Q. What time will the transition area re-open?
A. The exact time is to be determined by the Race Director and is dependant on when the last competitor completes the bike course and has set out on the run. We will not be responsible for any equipment not claimed.
Q. How do I set-up my transition area?
A. Your race number will determine which rack you must use to set up your bike and gear. If you get there early enough, setting up at the ends of the rack is usually easier to manage during the race. Bring a towel to mark off your transition area. Then simply visualize what will be easiest set-up for you to get your bike stuff on after the swim and the run stuff on after the bike. Ideas: place your bike helmet with straps open on the handle bars, set up bike shoes/socks and running shoes in order that you will need them, and use a race belt to carry your race number for the run.
Q. How do find my transition area during the race?
A. As part of your pre-race routine, you will have to determine the established gates into and out of the transition area for the swim, bike and run portions. Know exactly where your bike and transition area is set up (number of racks from the end, how many spots in, by a tree, etc.) and then rehearse finding your area from the swim entrance and bike entrance. Toward the end of your swim and bike portions, think about where you are going to go once you get to the transition area. Some triathletes assist this process by using distinctive markers (towels, balloons, signs, etc.) to make it easier to find.
Q. When do I check my gear in?
A. On race morning for all races except for half iron events, which requires that all competitors check their bike in on Saturday at the race expo.
Q. Will my bike and equipment be safe in the transition area until I am able to retrieve it?
A. Yes. Security will be stationed at the transition area.
Q. Are there changing tents in the Transition area?
A. No.
Q. What time does transition open race morning?
A. 1.5 hours before the start of the first wave.