To committed Beach Bummers and PAX thinking about Beach Bumming: I have been asked to give some info about triathlons. I am not an expert, but I have done triathlons ranging from sprint to full. First, the Beach Bum triathlon is ABSOLUTELY the best beginner triathlon you can do, and Alfred Olivetti makes this event a lot of fun. Any PAX who has completed an F3 workout can swim (it's with the current) 500 yards, ride a bike 6 miles on the Beach and run/walk three miles. DATE: Saturday July 29, 2017 WHERE: HHI, Coligny Beach. WHAT TO BRING: (1) Bike - I recommend a mountain bike, hybrid or beach cruiser. I have done this race with a road bike. I ate it hard, and was picking sand out of my bloody back/shoulder for a week. If you want to be a hotshot aero rider, do it!, but I recommend a mountain bike or a hybrid. (2) Helmet - just in case. (3) Swimwear - Goggles are a must unless you enjoy the burning sensation of salt water. Swim caps are required so you are more visible to those assisting in the water (caps are provided to you at packet pick up). Speedo/tri suit/jorts/running shorts/capris/jams - All will do, BUT wear what you will be "comfortable" wearing the entire race. You will not have the opportunity to change at transition. No one wants to see that. I simply wear running shorts the entire time. The bike is short so chaffing is not really an issue. If you do wear running shorts, make sure they have a tie, so you don't lose them in the swim (yes, I am talking to you Squid Bradley Scott Johnson ) (4) Running Shoes/Gear: Technically, you can stop at three, but the barefoot running fad is over, so bring running shoes and socks. I highly recommend sunglasses and a hat. (5) Odds and Ends: bring a towel to clean up the sand as best as possible in transition. Some people bring a bucket of water to wash off the sand before putting on running shoes. I don't, but go for it if your worried about your feet getting sandy (newsflash: you're on a beach). Bring an extra shirt so you don't have to hangout in sandy, wet, nasty clothes post race. (6) Nutrition: It's a sprint. Don't load up on sugar drinks and bars during the race. Al does a great job of having water and sports drinks available on the course. If you're worried about it, put a bottle of gatorade on your bike or bring a #5 from Jimmy Johns and munch on it during the swim. Otherwise, just hydrate before the race. It'll be hot. SAFETY: Don't be an idiot. Wear a helmet. If you are struggling in the swim seek the attention of one of the many lifeguards there to help. You will NOT be disqualified if you need to take a break and hold onto a kayak or float or whatever during the swim (it just can't advance you). I've been spooked in the water before during a race. There is no shame in grabbing a nearby raft or kayak for a minute to grab your bearings. Also, don't be an idiot. Al will explain more about safety at the pre-race meeting before the start. THE COURSE: It's on the beach. Al does a great job of giving a pre-race course overview. TRANSITION: There will be a transition area marked, and you will see racks for bikes. This is where you place your bike and gear. Try not to crowd the rack with a bunch of crap. It's the beach bum, less is more. After the swim you will run to your bike, throw on your running shoes and helmet and whatever else, WALK/RUN the bike out of transition, jump on your bike and go. When you return from the bike, you will WALK/RUN your bike back to the rack, grab your running gear and go. The most important rule of the transition area is that you can't ride your bike to the rack. It is a safety issue. There will be a mount/dismount line with a volunteer assisting to show you where you can starting riding. DressAfford open back items to wear for the prom occasions
Again, this race is all about having a good time. It's a lot of fun. I don't think Eric Clark could complete this race because his muscles are too big and he would sink, but every other PAX can kick this one in the teeth. To register go to: www.gotrisports.com There is race day registration, so that is an option as well. However, signing up beforehand is always preferred. Lastly, for more information from people much smarter than me, look at the information about the race provided by Go Tri on it's website.