Your First Triathlon

We have all been there at one point or another, because, at the end of the day, even the most experienced triathlete has to have had a first triathlon.  It can be daunting, intimidating, and perhaps even seem overwhelming.  But, the important thing to remember, no matter how much time you have been able to dedicate towards training, is that you won't be alone out there!  At every race there are going to be first timers, because that is what keeps this sport alive.  It is a beautiful thing, getting to share your experience with so many others.  You will have your own share of challenges come race day, but just focus on those around you and inspiration will soon follow.

You might be anxious about making silly mistakes and I am sure that the swim is the most stressful part for most people.  Perhaps it is the bike that you find to be nerve-wracking or maybe you aren't a natural runner.  Don't fear!  We all have strengths and weaknesses, but those don't have to define us in this sport.  You get two other disciplines to make up for whatever you are the least comfortable with, which is more than most sports can say.

Here is a simple check-list that I use before every race to ensure I have all the stuff I need:
Pre-race
Breakfast
Nutrition (Vespa)
Water
Nuun
Imodium
Sunscreen
Permanent Marker (In case there is a line for body marking)

Swim
Goggles
Swim Cap
Vaseline/Anti-Chafe
Watch (Garmin 910XT that I use for all 3 disciplines)

Bike
Bike Shoes
Helmet
Sunglasses
Nutrition (Vespa & Ucan for me!)
Socks
Water Bottles
Gear Bag (CO2, Spare Tube, Tools, Tire Levers)
Chamois Butter

Run
Race Belt
Bib
Hat
Nutrition (Vespa)
Shoes
Socks (just in case I need to change mine out)
Imodium
Base Salts
Nuun

That about sums it up for gear.  Before the race starts, you will lay out everything that you need in transition.  Make sure your tires are good on air and that all of your gear is ready to go!

Everyone has different preferences, but I love to get there as soon as transition opens just to reduce all the chance of errors with the things that I can control come race day.  This gives you plenty of time to triple check your gear and head over to the swim start.

Now, when it comes to the swim, even as a slower swimmer I like to start in the front because I would rather have people swim over me than have them kicking me from the get-go.  But, I have heard many beginners that prefer to let the chaos get started and settle into the swim a minute after the more aggressive swimmers start.  Sighting is very critical in this sport to avoid swimming extra long distances, so try to remember not to just follow people in front of you and wear goggles that allow you to see the buoys!

For the bike, settle into your groove and don't get caught up in the initial sprint that ends up burning out even the strongest of legs.  Do remember to abide by the drafting rules and which side you need to allow passing on/pass on.  As a helpful measure to all competitors, saying "on your left" or, in some cases, "on your right" is encouraged.  The bike should be painful, but not so painful that you don't have anything left for the run!  Ensure you stick to your nutrition plan on the bike and hydrate!

For the run, you are so close to the finish line, you literally just ran by it!  This is perhaps the most mentally challenging portion of the race.  You already managed to complete the first two legs, but now you need to defeat all the demons in your head that start telling you a 5k, 10k, 13.1 or 26.2 are too far.  It is key to stay cool out there, hence why I wear a hat and if it is a longer, hotter event, throwing ice in all available spots is key.  Also, take in nutrition, but me mindful of over or under hydrating.  I like to use aid stations as mile markers and plan my recovery walks through all of them. One step in front of the other will get you to the finish line, so just take in the scenery around you and rely on your fellow racers for encouragement.  There are always some great fans out there and neat signs to help distract you.

Congrats on completing you first triathlon, and I hope you will continue with this sport for the rest of your life!