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| Getting Started |
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Triathlon - What is it?
Triathlon is called a Multisport because it has a combination of the 3 sports of swimming, bike and running.
Other then the triathlon there is the Aquathlon is an event where there is no cycle leg, just Run, Swim, Run.
There is also the Duathlon which has no swim leg, just Run, Bike, Run.
Then there is the Ironman which is the marathon of Triathlon, it still has the same legs of a triathlon but they leg distances are much longer.
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How does triathlon work?
1. The triathlon starts with a swim, most likely being open water (either the beach or a lake). Triathletes are to swim around the buoys and back to the start.
2. The athletes then enter the Transition Area, this is where they change into their shoes and helmet. Then enter the cycling leg of the course.
3. Once finishing the cycle leg of the race, triathletes enter into another Transition Area and dismount the bike, shoes are put on and helmet is taken off. This is the final leg of the race.
What makes a successful triathlete?
You can be a good swimmer, a strong cyclist and a fast runner, but you need to be an organised triathlete.
Transition, where you change from one sport to another, is the key to success. If you are prepared and your gear is ready you will have a successful race.
Here are some things to help with preparation:
Pre Race
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Practise entering a "Transition Area" from the swim. Put on your helmet, take off your wetsuit (if using one). Put on your shoes (if not already attached to the bike). Unrack your bike and run with your bike to the Mount line.
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Practise dismounting at the Dismount line, and finding your rack. Rack your bike and then put on shoes. Only then take off your helmet.
Race Day
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Get to know the Transition Area - where the Entry and Exit points are.
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Look over the course so you are confident of where you are going.
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Have a well-laid out personal area: shoes, water, helmet, towel.
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Remember to always have the top half og your body covered
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Be at the briefing, so you know what is expected
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Have fun.
After the Race
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Collect your gear, when permitted to enter the Transition Area
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Drink plenty of water
Gear that you will need.
Swim:
wetsuit, goggles, cap
Cycle:
bike, helmet, shoes, water/gels, pump, sunglasses
Run:
shoes (with elastic laces), hat, towel, sunglasses
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