March Triathlon Series

Beginners' Corner

Are you new to the sport of triathlon? If so, then you've made a great choice in checking out the March Triathlon Series. Part of our mission is to provide a beginner friendly course: no loops, no confusing turns, and no getting lost. What will our course have? Well for starters, we'll have plenty of volunteers; big,bright signs; and aid stations. Of course, just because our course is "beginner friendly" doesn't mean it doesn't have its challenges. Check out the Course Info page, which provides an elevation map for both the bike and run courses so you know exactly what to expect come race day. That being said, this "Beginner's Corner" is design to help the first-time triathlete complete his or her first triathlon.

Resources

TriathaNewbie

Beginner Triathlete

Triathlete/ Inside Triathlon

USAT Rules

How Triathlons and Transitions Works

There are three legs in sport of triathlon, and you've been training for those three disciplines for who-knows-how-long. Traditionally, the order of triathlons is as follows: swim, bike, and run. MTS follows this format. Between each of the legs is a transition. Transitions, or the "4th sport of triathlon," have the tendency of confusing first-time triathletes.

Let's break it [the transitions] down.

Swim, swim, swim... Congratulations, you've completed the swim! After completing the swim, you will run back into the transition area and change into appropriate biking attire. This usually just means stripping off your wetsuit and putting on your shoes, helmet, and sunglasses. However, if you do not have a trisuit, you may want to change out of your swimwear into something fit for the bike. (Please be considerate of other participants around you if you decide to undress and change in transition.) Once you're changed and have your helmet secured (this is important!), run or walk your bike out of the transition area. Under no circumstances may you ride your bike in transition. You may only get on your bike after the "mount line." Our volunteers will let you know where and when this happens. You MUST have your helmet secured before get on your bike; if you do not, you will be disqualified. It is best to secure your helmet as the first thing you do in transition after changing.

Bike, bike, bike...(Remember, NO Drafting)... Congratulations, you're ALMOST done with the bike. Towards the end of the bike, before you are back into transition, you will need to get off your bike at the "dismount line." Slow down significantly and dismount. Again, volunteers will indicate where and when this happens. If you're like many first-time triathletes, you might not have practiced mounting and dismounting. Don't worry, take your time, and be safe. Many people even stop completely before getting off their bike; there is nothing wrong with this option. (Just a warning, if you decide to stop completely, make sure you don't do it abruptly and be aware of people behind you.) Now you're done with the bike. Run or walk your bike back to where you are situated. Put your bike back on the rack in a way that doesn't obstruct your neighbor's space. Take off your helmet, switch shoes (if necessary), and get ready for the run!

What to Expect on Race Day

Other than an amazing race, here are some other things to expect.

Expect it to be cold and dark when you arrive at the park. Volunteers will direct you to parking and the transition area. The transition area is where all of your "stuff" goes and where you'll change/get ready for the next leg of the race. Arrive early, as the transition area is "open," meaning that there are no assigned spots. Look for a little dot on the bike rack to see where you should rack your bike. Set up area accordingly.

For more information, check out the Race Day Info page.

A Checklist, of Sorts (as provided by USAT)...

General

USAT Card

Photo ID

Race uniform

Nutrition (Gels, bars, food)

Sunscreen

Sunglasses

Water bottle(s)

Anti-chafing product

Extra clothe