FAQ

Q: What do I need in order to participate in a triathlon?

A:  The SWIM:
Swim suit – Some people us a tri suit that they swim, bike, and run in.  Until our uniforms come in you are on your own
Goggles – Make sure they are comfortable.  Remember on race day its usually sunny outside in the pools its not.  Practice how you race.
           
The BIKE:
Bike – Road bike or mountain bike.  Usually they have “fat tire” category so its MB vs MB and Rd B vs Rd B.
Helmet – This is very important. You cant race or practice in the club without one.  Make sure it fits correctly and it’s not too old.
Water/Sports drink – It’s vitally important to have some way to hydrate yourself during the race.

OPTIONAL
Bike shorts – Its important to be comfortable on the bike.
Shoes and clip in pedals – this is a comfort issue and performance enhancer
Sunglasses – south Georgia has tons of bugs, I always wear sunglasses to ride even if it’s cloudy outside.

The RUN:
Running shoes – these might be the most important thing, don’t run in old shoes and hurt yourself.  Run in different shoes from
what you work in and walk to class in.  Dedicate a pair of shoes for your work outs and races

OPTIONAL
Race belt – this helps when you transition to the run, and it keep holes out of your clothes from the safety pins
Racing flats – lightweight shoes to improve performance, only use these for races, not for training
Sunglasses – see above

The Transition:
OPTIONAL
Towel - Some people like to have a towel to dry off with and lay there stuff on
Bucket/milk crate – its helps keep all your stuff together and some people like having something to sit on, if you have the room in the transitions station.

Q: What are club dues?

A:  Club dues are 20 Dollars a year.

Q: What does the club pay for?

A:  The club will attempt to cover your one year USAT membership, registration fees for races, and transportation. Meals, lodging, and all racing equipment will covered by the individual member.

Q: What should I eat on race day?

A: 48-72 hours before a race you should be carb loading. Every racer is different in preparation. I find that a banana and a yogart as soon as I wake up are good fuel, maybe even a bagel. This way it gets in my system and starts digesting before the swim. You will most likely wake up very early a couple hours before the race. .

Q: Do I have to come to practice to be part of the club?

A:  We encourage practicing together, but NO you do not have to practice to race for the club. If you can only show up on race day, that is fine. The club offers fellowship and training tips for triathletes, practice is usually where you will get the most benefit from being a member of the club.

Q: What do I have to do to be a member of the club?

A:  Pay club dues, flll out the member forms found on the links page, and get a physical to keep on record at the Rec Center .

Q: What do I have to do to qualify for Regionals and Nationals?

A:  Both Regionals and Nationals are open races like any other race during the year. Currently you do not have to qualify for either race. As long as you sign up and meet all the constitution rules (fule time student, good GPA, etc) you can race at both those races

. Q: Where can I find a bike?

A:  Finding a bike seems to be the biggest challeng for many beginner triathletes. You can use a mountain bike but you will be racing road and time trial bikes, so having the proper equipment will be more fulfilling. eBay has bikes for sale all the time if you are looking for a used bike. We have a local bike shop that sponsors the team, you can get a discount on a new bike if you have paid your membership dues. Also, I send out emails any time I find a bike for sale. Borrowing a friends bike is also an option.