Your Swim Start Check List
An open water swim in triathlon is substantially different from swimming in a pool. To alleviate stress, it's important that you arrive on race day healthy, fit and prepared. Here is a check list to help you prepare.
1-PREPARE FOR RACE CONDITIONS:
Race day should not be your first open water swim. It is always wise to practice before hand especially if using a wet suit for the first time.
2-LEARN COURSE DETAILS:
Make sure you know your swim start time with in the correct event. Please refer to the wave charts above and the course maps from the links at the top of the page.
3-WARM UP ON RACE DAY:
Arrive early enough on race day to properly warm up to swim start. Water warm ups are not officially supervised . If you are unable to get in the water , spend about 5-10 min getting loose. Perhaps do some cardio activity such as a light jog to increase circulation and prep your muscles.
4- START EASY- RELAX and BREATHE:
Don't race at maximum effort from the start. Relax and focus on breathing and keeping your head up for the first while until you can find your pace and feel more comfortable. If it is your first triathlon and find yourself nervous about the swim, please consider asking to switch to the last wave of your race at the Late Registration/Solutions Table. This will allow you to spread out more and take your time. We like to say that it is best to EXPERIENCE your first event and not to RACE it! :-)
5-BE ALERT AND ASK FOR HELP:
In a race always stop at the first sign of medical problem. If you or a fellow athlete needs help, just raise your hand to alert a lifeguard or safety boat. You are allowed to stop at any time and hang on to rest as long as you don't gain any forward advantage. Safety comes first!
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