What is a Triathlon?
A triathlon is a multi-disciplined event which usually comprises a swim, cycle and then a run in a continuous order without any breaks. The distances involved can vary hugely from Novice Sprint events (200m swim, 10km cycle, 2.5km run) up to Olympic/Standard (1500m swim, 40km cycle, 10km run), Ironman (3.86km swim, 180km cycle, 42km run) or even double or treble Ironman and everything in between.
The Penrith Triathlon is classified as a Sprint event and involves:
- 400m swim in Penrith Swimming Pool
- 23km cycle route on a road loop out to Great Salkeld and back
- 5km run on nearby fields
Do I need to be a super fit, honed, elite athlete with a temple of a body?
Absolutely not! The Penrith Triathlon is an event for which training would be comparable to that required for a 10-12 mile fun run for most and is something that can be achieved by anyone. Whilst several of the leading participants will be very fast there will also be a large number of people either giving triathlon a go for the first time as a personal challenge or using the event as a means to raise money for charity.
Am I expected to be fully proficient in all 3 disciplines?
Again, no. One of the great things about triathlon is that everyone has different strengths and abilities making for an exciting event. One of the big worries held by many first timers is their perceived weakness in swimming, however as long as you can swim without armbands you shouldn’t have a problem! Again, whilst some of the quickest participants will be very good swimmers, times of 15-20 minutes for the swim are not uncommon amongst participants.
What equipment do I need to take part?
Whilst you may have seen triathlons on TV where professional athletes have a range of high-spec equipment ranging from wetsuits to tri-suits to hugely expensive aerodynamic bikes and helmets the reality is that to compete in a local event that it’s really quite simple. All you require as a minimum is a swimming costume, trainers, a bike, a shirt or vest and a helmet, it really is that simple.
Where do I change my equipment?
During the event you will need different equipment at different times, for instance you shouldn’t require your bike whilst you're swimming but will need it to then start the cycle element of the event. To get around this there is a secure area in which only competitors and race officials will be allowed called transition. In this area there will be an area numbered for each race participant which corresponds to their race number, allowing them to rack their bike and store other equipment such as trainers or shirts, ideally in a box or bag. An example of how transition will work in a race is given below.
Finish swim - exit swimming pool -Transition; drop off goggles and hat, pick up bike, helmet, shoes and any additional clothing - Start cycle loop
Finish cycle loop - Transition; rack bike, drop off helmet, put on running shoes and pick up energy drink - Start run route
If there are 200+ people taking part, how do we all fit in the pool?
Participants will be set off in waves or heats that will allow the field to be broken up and give you enough room in the pool to swim comfortably with no more than six swimmers in a lane at any one time. The heat or wave you are allocated to will depend upon the estimated swim time you give on your entry and will attempt to ensure that you are swimming with participants of a similar pace.
How will everyone get timed for the event if we're all setting off at different times?
The race will be timed by electronic chips which will be strapped to your ankle using a Velcro or buckle strap (provided by race organisers). Each participant will be allocated a specific timing chip which will be programmed to start timing at the when you’re due to start your swim. As you pass over timing mats the chip will register with a central computer to give you a time for that section of the course. At the end of the race you will get times for; the swim, the first time in transition, the cycle, the second time in transition and finally the run in addition to your overall time.
If I'm not interested in doing the whole race could I get some mates together to share the workload?
Yes! In addition to the male, female and veteran categories there is also a team relay category in which a team of 3 take one section of the event each. Relay teams come from all walks of life such as other sports clubs, offices, pubs or simply groups of friends wanting to give the sport a go.
Are there any particular rules I should know before taking part?
Generally the rules involved in triathlon are pretty much common sense, ensuring that rules of the road are adhered to and that you respect other race participants. For a comprehensive view of the rules see triathlon rules on British Triathlon's website.
How do I enter?
The next triathlon will be held on Sunday 28 August 2011, information including entry forms will be posted on this webpage nearer the time.
Further Information
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Contact: Assistant Leisure Officer, Leisure Team, Eden District Council, Mansion House, Penrith, CA11 7YG
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Telephone: 01768 212474
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Email: leisure@eden.gov.uk
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Fax: 01768 890732
