THE TRIATHLON

WHAT IS A TRIATHLON?

A triathlon is a sporting event comprised of three sports: Swimming, Biking and Running.

WHAT ARE THE RACE DISTANCES?

The Race consists of a 1/2 mile Swim, 12 mile Bike and 3 mile Run. All distances are approximate.

HOW OLD MUST I BE IN ORDER TO ENTER?

Participants must be at least 14 years old as of 12/31/10 to enter.

I'VE NEVER DONE A TRIATHLON BEFORE, WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?

Per USA Triathlon recommendations, each participant needs to accept responsibility in determining whether they are sufficiently fit and healthy enough to safely participate in a Triathlon and that they will be sufficiently fit and physically trained to participate in any Triathlon which they elect to enter and that they have conferred with a medical doctor who has agreed to their participation in the Event. Participants should consider a training program to prepare properly for their Triathlon.

WHAT STEPS CAN I TAKE FOR A SUCCESSFUL START?

Arrive early
Be prepared with necessary Race day items
Make sure you are body marked on the front of your upper arms and on thighs (optional)
Affix “loaner” timing chip and strap to ankle
Be sure to affix bike helmet sticker and bike frame number before entering Transition Area
Attach Race number to front of shirt that you will be wearing during the Run (use Race belt or safety pins provided)
Enter Transition Area in an orderly fashion
Lay out your gear (sneakers, socks, towel, helmet, water, etc) neatly and concisely next to your racked bike
Relax and enjoy the best experience of your life

WHEN DO I NEED TO BE AT RACE SITE ON MORNING OF RACE?

We encourage ALL participants, regardless of Swim wave start time, to arrive at the Race site at least 30-60 minutes in advance of Race start.

WHY DOES THE TRANSITION AREA REMAIN CLOSED WHILE THE RACE IS ONGOING?

USA Triathlon Federation Rule 7.4 – Obstruction and Interference: "No participant shall impede the forward progress of another participant or interfere with another participant's equipment while in the Transition Area". The Local Race Director will use their best discretion on when the Transition area will be accessible to athletes to pick up their gear and leave Race site. The Transition area may be entered by athletes only.

WILL I RECEIVE A FINISHER’S MEDAL WHEN I CROSS THES FINISH LINE?

Every Danskin Triathlon Series participant will be greeted by a cheering crowd and given a medal as soon as they cross the finish line. Each Relay Team member will receive a finisher’s medal as well.

ENTRY CATEGORIES

WHAT ARE THE ENTRY CATEGORIES?

The Danskin Triathlon Series offers entry in SIX individual categories: Age Group, Mix Age Group, Athena, Women In Uniform, Physically Challenged and Elite as well as a Relay Team Category.

WHO SHOULD ENTER IN THE AGE GROUP CATEGORY?

Women who want to do the Race with other women in their Age Group
Women who want to do the Race on an individual basis for official Race time within their Age Group
Women who want to be eligible for Age Group awards (top three in each Age Group Category)

NOTE: Most Races will have more than one wave in each Age Group Category. There is NO GUARANTEE that you will be in same wave (approximately 100 women per wave) with a family member or friend who also signed up to do the Race in the same Age Group Category

HOW ARE THE AGE GROUPS DETERMINED?

Each group within the Age Group category is in 5 year intervals (14-19, 20-24, 25-29, 30-34, and so on.)

WHO SHOULD ENTER IN THE MIXED AGE GROUP CATEGORY?

Women who want to do the Race with family, friends, training partners, etc. all/some of whom are of varying ages
Women who want to be GUARANTEED to START the Race with a pal, colleague, sister, etc. who also entered the Mixed Age Group Category
Women who want to do the Race for official Race time within their Mixed Age Group

NOTE: Women who have entered the Mixed Age Group Category will start Race in waves of 100. There are no assigned wave starts. Please line up with other women in the Mixed Age Group Category with whom you’d like to start the Race with.

WHO CAN ENTER IN THE ATHENA CATEGORY?

Pursuant to USAT Rules, women whose weight is 150lbs or greater
Women who want to be ranked and scored against women who are the same stature (150+ lbs)
Women who want to do the Race on an individual basis for official Race time within the Athena Category
Women who want to be eligible for Athena Category awards (top three in Athena Category)

WHO CAN ENTER IN THE WOMEN IN UNIFORM CATEGORY?

Women employed as military, fire, police, government
Women who want to be ranked and scored against other Women in Uniform
Women who want to do the Race on an individual basis for official Race time within the Women in Uniform Category
Women who want to be eligible for Women in Uniform Category awards (top three in Women in Uniform Category)

DO I QUALIFY FOR THE PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED CATEGORY?

The rules for the Physically Challenged Category are sanctioned by USA Triathlon. Please click here for USA Triathlon Physically Challenged specifications.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO ENTER THE ELITE CATEGORY?

Elites must have been a top 10 finisher and/or top 3 finisher in their respective Age Group Category in a Race of 300 or more women

HOW DO I ENTER THE ELITE CATEGORY?

Athletes who would like to participate in the ELITE Category should enter in the AGE GROUP Category and submit a record of their previous Race results at time of entry to mark@timberlinetiming.com. All athletes whose Race results warrant a change of entry category will automatically have their Race entry changed to the ELITE category in our Race database. Allow 10 days for Race results to be reviewed and for the category change to appear in our database.

WHO SHOULD ENTER AS A RELAY TEAM?

Women who want to split the 3 segments of the triathlon (swim, bike, run) with one or two friends, family members, colleagues, etc.
Women who want to do the Race for official Race time within a Relay Team Category
Women who want to be eligible for Relay Team awards (the winning Team in each of the Relay Team categories will be awarded a team prize)

WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENT RELAY TEAM CATEGORIES?

Family, Friends, Corporate and Physically Challenged, Survivor Relay

DO YOU OFFER RELAY TEAM MATCH UPS?

No. All teams must find their own team members.

ENTRY FEES

WHAT ARE THE TRIATHLON ENTRY FEES?

The Entry Fee for an Individual Entry Category (Age Group, Mixed Age Group, Athena, Women In Uniform, Physically Challenged, Elite) is $95. If entries are still available on Race Weekend, entry fee will be $100.

The Entry Fee for a Relay Team Category (Friends, Family, Corporate, Physically Challenged, Survivor Relay) is $159. If entries are still available on Race Weekend, entry fee will be $175.

WHAT IS THE USA TRIATHLON ONE DAY MEMBERSHIP FEE?

All Races within USA Triathlon federation requires each participant to purchase a one-day $10 membership. This membership triggers insurance to be in effect for each participant on Race Day. The $10 USA Triathlon One-Day Membership fee will automatically be added to your online entry. Please be sure to include $10 membership fee in total payment for Mailed and Faxed entries.

NOTE: Each member of a Relay Team must pay the $10 fee. ($20 USAT membership fee for a two person Relay, $30 USAT membership fee for a three person Relay)

WHAT IF I AM AN ANNUAL USA TRIATHLON MEMBER?

If you are an annual USA Triathlon member and provide your member # on the entry form, you will not be charged. Annual members must present membership card during Race Materials Pick Up to prove membership and avoid charge.

ENTRY RULES

IS THERE A CUT OFF DATE TO ENTER A RACE?

Each Race will remain open for Registration/Entry until the maximum allotted entries is reached. This number varies by Race City.

MAY I ENTER ON RACE WEEKEND?

If entries are still available on Race weekend, you may enter at Race Materials Pick Up/Expo. Please check status of availability- www.danskintriathlon.net – under Races/Dates – prior to attending.

MAY I PUT MY NAME ON A WAITING LIST IF A RACE IS CLOSED?

There are no waiting lists.

MAY I TAKE THE ENTRY FROM A FRIEND WHO CAN NO LONGER PARTICIPATE?

NO. Race entries are non-transferable.

CAN I GET A REFUND AFTER I ENTER A RACE?

There are NO REFUNDS. NO EXCEPTIONS.

I SIGNED UP FOR THE WRONG ENTRY CATEGORY, WHAT CAN I DO?

Submit the Change of Entry Category Request form within 14 days of Race date of Race entered. A $15 processing fee will apply, as well as entry category fee difference, if applicable. Late requests cannot be honored. No Change of Entry Category will be made at Race Materials Pick Up.

WHAT SHOULD WE DO IF A MEMBER FROM OUR RELAY TEAM CANNOT RACE?

There are two options:

If there are three team members, one of the two remaining Relay Team members can complete the third segment of the Race.
You may find a replacement Team Member. Replacement team member MUST send an email to info@timberlinetiming.com with the SUBJECT LINE: Danskin Triathlon Relay Team Replacement, and In the BODY OF E-MAIL, please include:
1. Race City
2. Team Name
3. Original Team Member
4. Replacement Team Member
5. Confirmation #, if applicable

All requests must be received no later than 14 days prior to Race date of Race entered.

I'VE ENTERED A RACE, BUT I'VE BECOME ILL OR INJURED. AM I ENTITLED TO A REFUND?

There are NO REFUNDS.

However, if you are unable to compete due to illness and/or injury, then you may be eligible for a medical roll-over to next year's event. In order to be considered, you must submit:

A completed Medical Rollover Form – Click Here to download form
A letter from your physician confirming your inability to compete

Approved Medical Rollovers are for same Race within the 2011 season only. The granting of a Medical Rollover by the Danskin Triathlon Series does not guarantee your entry in the 2011 Danskin Triathlon Series. It is your responsibility to complete and submit an entry in 2011.

Mail to address on form. Be sure to include documentation from your physician.

ENTRY PROCESS

HOW DO I ENTER A RACE?

Click here to be taken to VIRTUAL ROSTER and Enter Online.

HOW WILL I KNOW MY ONLINE ENTRY WAS RECEIVED?

You will receive an automated response confirming receipt of your online entry. You may also:

· Click Entry Tab on Home Page
· Confirm Entry
· Choose Race city you entered
· Type in your last name or relay team name (only enter information in one field)
· Click search
· Scroll down to end of page to view your information

HOW WILL MY ONLINE ENTRY FEES BE APPLIED?

Online entry fee charges will appear in the name of "ONLINE-REGISTRATION” on your credit card statement. Fees will include entry fee, USA Triathlon one day membership fee, if applicable, online processing fee and any additional online purchases.

HOW WILL I KNOW MY FAXED OR MAILED ENTRY FORM WAS RECEIVED?

You will NOT receive confirmation receipt of faxed or mailed entry. After 10-15 business days, simply go to the ENTRY navigation key on the Series home page:

· Click Entry Tab on Home Page
· Confirm Entry
· Choose Race city you entered
· Type in your last name or relay team name (only enter information in one field)
· Click search
· Scroll down to end of page to view your information

HOW WILL MY MAILED OR FAXED ENTRY FEES BE APPLIED?

Mailed and Faxed entry fee charges will appear in the name of "RACE REGISTRATION" on your credit card statement.

TRAINING

ARE THERE TRAINING PROGRAMS NEAR ME?

Heart Zones USA is the leader in industry and the place to go for information on the Preferred Training Programs for the 2010 Danskin Triathlon Series. Click here to find out about programs near you.

HOW DO I TRAIN WITH MY HEART RATE MONITOR?

Heart Zones USA, world- frontrunner in heart rate training and education offers a variety of seminars, workshops and conferences throughout the country. To find one near you, visit http://www.heartzones.com/ to sign up to learn how to train efficiently and safely. Sally Edwards will provide you with free resources – articles, events, newsletters and a free heart rate monitor as a gift with any purchase.

WHERE CAN I GET SALLY EDWARD’S BOOKS ON TRAINING?

Sally Edwards is a renowned author in the field of training. She has written 22 books on triathlons, cycling, heart rate training, weight loss, and emotional fitness.

Sally’s recommendations:

Triathlons for Women
The Triathlon Log

For more information and to order Sally’s books at the lowest prices, log onto: http://www.HeartZones.com or order by phone:
916-481-7283 916-481-7283 916-481-7283 916-481-7283 ext. 111.

RACE MATERIALS PICK UP AND EXPO

IS THE RACE MATERIALS PICK UP MANDATORY?

Yes. In order to pick up your Race Materials, you must:

Show valid Photo I.D.
Sign Race Waiver-Acknowledgement Form

WHAT SHOULD I HAVE WITH ME AT RACE MATERIALS PICK UP?

A valid Photo I.D.
If you are an annual USA Triathlon member, you must present membership card during Race Materials Pick Up to prove membership and avoid charge

WHAT WILL I RECEIVE IN MY ENTRY PACKET AT RACE MATERIALS PICK UP?

1 Tyvek® Race number to pin to shirt for Run
1 helmet number self-adhesive sticker for Bike helmet
1 self adhesive fold over frame number for Bike (no twist ties)
1 “loaner” ChampionChip timing chip to be timed for all 3 segments of Race (to be returned after Race)
1 plastic ankle strap to attached chip
Final Instructions sheet

WHAT SHOULD I BE SURE TO DO AT RACE MATERIALS PICK UP AND EXPO?

Present photo I.D. to receive Race Materials in Entry Packet
Sign Race Waiver – Acknowledgement Form
Scan Entry Packet with “loaner” timing chip at Chip Check Station
Pick up swim cap, participant shirt and goodies
Attend a Course Overview to confirm the course route and ask questions about Race Day
Check out sponsor booths and exhibits

THE SWIM, BIKE, RUN

SWIM

WHAT SWIM WAVE WILL I BE IN AND IN WHAT ORDER?

· Athletes are placed in Swim waves according to Entry Category they entered
· Swim waves will start with Elite, Team Survivor, Age Group, Athena, Women in Uniform, Relay, Mixed Age Group

WHAT IF I WANT TO BE IN MY FRIEND’S SWIM WAVE?

If starting the Race with a friend is your main goal, it is our recommendation to sign up for the Mixed Age Group.

Assigned Age Group waves cannot be changed, if you start in a different wave, you may be disqualified.

HOW MANY WOMEN ARE IN A WAVE?

On average, there are 100 women per wave. This number can vary per Race.

HOW OFTEN DOES A SWIM WAVE ENTER THE WATER?

Waves enter the water every 3-5 minutes. Wave “starts” are approximate (vary per Race).

MAY I WEAR A WETSUIT?

USA Triathlon Federation Rule 4.4 Wet Suits states: Each age group participant shall be permitted to wear a wet suit without penalty in any event sanctioned by USA Triathlon up to and including a water temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water temperature is greater than 78 degrees, but less than 84 degrees Fahrenheit, age group participants may wear a wet suit at their own discretion, provided however that participants who wear a wet suit within this temperature range shall not be eligible for prizes or awards. Age group participants shall not wear wet suits in water temperatures equal to or greater than 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The wetsuit policy for elite athletes shall be determined by the USAT Athletes Advisory Council.

MAY I WEAR GOGGLES?

USA Triathlon Federation Rule 4.8 Goggles states: swimmers may wear, but shall not be required to wear swim goggles or face masks.

MAY I WEAR WATER SHOES?

Water shoes may be worn. Please be sure they are fitted properly.

MAY I USE FLOATS DURING THE SWIM?

USA Triathlon Federation Rule 4.9 Illegal Equipment states: Any swimmer wearing any artificial propulsion device, including but not limited to fins, gloves, paddles, or floating devices of any kind shall be disqualified.

SWIM TIPS

Strong swimmers should be at front of wave
Weaker swimmers should stay near the back and outer boundaries of the wave
Water safety personnel, lifeguards and kayakers are in water at all times. If you become tired or frightened you may hold onto a kayak or surfboard without being disqualified
Any swim stroke is acceptable
After exiting the Swim Finish, return to Transition area to get your bike

BIKE and RUN

WHAT TYPE OF BIKE SHOULD I USE?

· Road
· Mountain
· Racing Bike

IF I AM TRAVELING, HOW DO I RENT A BIKE?

We suggest you do a "Google" search for area bike rental shops
We recommend that you rent equipment from a reputable dealer and that you are properly fitted for the equipment you have rented/borrowed, etc.

IS AN IPOD/WALKMAN OR OTHER DEVICE WITH HEADPHONES ALLOWED DURING THE BIKE AND RUN?

USA Triathlon rules 5.8 Illegal Equipment stats: Any participants who at any time uses, wears or carries a headset, radio, headphones, personal audio device, or any other item described in Section 3.4(i) shall be assessed a variable time penalty

HOW CAN I BE SURE TO FIND MY BIKE QUICKLY IN THE TRANSITION AREA?

You may use “indicators” (signs, bandanas, flags) within your section. Please be courteous of other participants. Volunteers and staff are permitted to remove any large markers interfering with the safety of other participants.

NOTE: For the good of the environment, we ask that balloons not be used. If used, we request you deflate and take with you after the race.

WHAT SHOUD I WEAR?

Racing attire is a personal choice:

Swim suit
Tank, tee, sports bra
Shorts, bike shorts
Socks, running shoes

We advise change of clothing be layered over swim suit as there are no changing rooms available.

BIKE and RUN TIPS

All handlebar ends must be solidly plugged
Make sure helmet is properly fitted
Chin strap must be snapped closed
Bring flat tire repair kit
Walk your bike to the Bike Start banner (riding is not permitted inside the transition area)
Return to Transition area and rack your bike on same bike rack
Bring bottled water
Follow instructions by on-course volunteers
CROSS THE FINISH LINE!

CHAMPION CHIP TIMING

WHAT IS CHAMPIONCHIP TIMING CHIP?

ChampionChip is a “state of the art” computerized timing chip which contains participant name and Race number.

WHERE DO I GET MY TIMING CHIP?

You will get your “loaner” timing chip in the Entry Packet at Race Materials Pick Up. Please be sure to return “loaner” chip at Finish line after Race.

WHAT IS THE CHIP CHECK STATION AT THE RACE MATERIALS PICK UP AND HOW DO I USE IT?

· A computerized timing chip check system
· Verifies participant name and Race number
· Leave timing chip in packet and scan Entry Packet over computerized mat
· Your name and Race number will appear on computer screen

WILL I BE CHARGED FOR THE TIMING CHIP?

All Athletes will:

Receive a “loaner” timing chip, at no charge, for Race Day only
Be responsible for returning “loaner” timing chip at Finish line on Race Day (volunteers will be on hand to remove chip/strap)
Agree to pay a $30 replacement fee, if “loaner” timing chip is lost or not returned

WHAT IF I OWN A TIMING CHIP THAT I’D LIKE TO USE?

· Provide the six digit chip code on Entry form, where indicated
· Bring to Race Materials Pick Up to verify your information at Chip Check Station
· Bring with you on Race Day

NOTE: Your Entry Packet will contain a black “loaner” timing chip. Please return this timing chip at the at the Chip Check station at Race Materials
Pick Up on Saturday.

HOW DO I PUT ON MY TIMING CHIP?

Timing chips MUST be worn on the ANKLE
SECURELY attached timing chip to ankle with plastic ankle strap provided in Entry Packet at Race Materials Pick Up
Leave one finger's width of space before snapping strap
- A too-tight strap may cause irritation
- A too-loose strap may fall off
Relay Teams will be provided with a Velcro strap to attach timing chip

HOW AM I TIMED WITH MY CHIP?

As participants enter and exit each transition area (Swim to Bike, Bike to Run, Run to Finish Line), they will step on a Red mat which will record each participant’s time.

WHAT DO I DO IF I REVEIVED A “LOANER” TIMING CHIP AT RACE MATERIALS PICK UP BUT WAS UNABLE TO DO RACE ON RACE DAY?

To avoid being charged, please mail it to the address indicated on Entry Packet, email us at info@danskintriathlon.net or call toll free 1-877-221-9665

WHAT IF I LOSE OR FORGET MY “LOANER” TIMING CHIP BEFORE STARTING THE RACE?

If you lose/forget the “loaner” chip prior to Race, go to Chips/Straps/Caps table at Swim start
You will be charged a $30 replacement fee for lost chip
You may pay after the Race is over if you do not have payment with you at Swim start
To avoid being charged for “forgotten” chip, it is your responsibility to mail the timing chip to the address indicated on Entry Packet

WHAT IF I LOSE MY TIMING CHIP ON THE COURSE?

If you lose your “loaner” or you “owned” timing chip during a segment of the Race, please notify timing officials or volunteers at each timing location (In Swim, Out Swim, In Bike, Out Bike, Out Run and Finish). You will be manually timed, and you will still get Race results and split times. You are responsible for properly affixing the timing chip to your ankle. If a “loaner” timing chip falls off during the Race, you will be charged $30 for the lost “loaner” timing chip.

WHAT TO BRING ON RACE DAY?

I’M A PARTICIPANT, WHAT SHOULD I BRING ON RACE MORNING? click here to download

Timing chip and strap
Swim cap
Bike helmet with your assigned race number affixed to the front
Race number pinned to Running shirt
Small backpack or bag marked with your Race number
Small towel
Footwear
Fix-a-flat kit and bike pump
Sunglasses
Snacks
Bottled water
Hat
Sunscreen
Cell phone (it is advisable to program your phone with your name and phone number in the event it is misplaced)
A plan to meet up with your friends and family – we recommend the tried and true “Call or Text” at conclusion of Race
It is not recommended to bring anything of value with you on Race morning

WHAT SHOULD MY CHEERING SQUAD BRING ON RACE MORNING? click here to download

Snacks
Beverages
Hat
Sunscreen
Sunglasses
Umbrella
Sweatshirt
Folding chair or blanket
Camera
Cell phone
Your race number and swim wave
A plan to meet up with you at conclusion of the Race

SPECTATOR GUIDELINES

Click here to download

A triathlon Race course uses open areas public roads. As a result, it is important that spectators be conscious of their surroundings and be careful not to interfere with the athletes during the Race.

First and Foremost – Never distract an athlete
Follow instructions from all Racing staff, volunteers and public safety
Do not at any time, enter the Race course
Pacing athletes is not permitted
Be aware of areas Off Limits to spectators: fencing, flagging, cones
Do NOT lean or push on fencing
Use designated crosswalks only when instructed by volunteers
Always look both ways and behind you before crossing or changing direction
Keep moving in a orderly fashion
Do not stop abruptly, keep up with the crowd
Racers have the right of way. Spectators MUST yield to racers in progress
SPECTATORS and/or FAMILY MEMBERS are NOT permitted in the Transition Area
If you are in the front zone, be considerate of others, and allow them to view Race as well
Know your athlete’s race number, swim cap color, wave number, wave start time and estimated finish time
Have a plan to meet up with your athlete at conclusion of Race
Leave plenty of travel time. Expect heavy traffic into Race site and/or Parking area
Don’t litter. Use garbage cans.

LOST & FOUND

WHERE DO I GO IF MY CHILD WANDERS OFF?

If your child wanders off or if you find a lost child, go to the Sponsor Media Tent located at the finish line. We will be more than happy to make announcements to reunite child with parent or guardian.

WHERE DO I LOOK FOR LOST ITEMS ON RACE DAY?

Most items lost or found DURING the race will be brought to the Sponsor/Media Tent at the Finish Line area
Items found AFTER the race are, in most instances, picked up by the Local Race Director or held at the Park by Park Officials for claiming
Wearing or bringing items of personal or sentimental value on Race Day is discouraged
It is recommended that you include your name and cell number within the memory or your cell phone
Please label all personal material (especially cameras, phones, etc) with your contact information

LOST AN ITEM? FOUND AN ITEM? WHAT DO I DO?

If you have lost or found an item of value during a Danskin Triathlon, please e-mail information to us at info@danskintriathlon.net, include "Lost and Found" in the subject line and item description and contact information in body of e-mail. We will make every attempt to reunite property with owner.

NOTE: Danskin Triathlon Series is not responsible for any items lost during a Race.

Frequently Asked Questions