FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions – Sportsplex Tri for Kids:
Packet pickup is available Friday (the day before the race) from 3:00–6:00 p.m. at the Sportsplex.
Race-day pickup will be available on Saturday (race day) from 6:00–6:45 a.m. — please note that transition promptly closes at 7:00 a.m.
Each participant will receive:
- Swim cap (must be worn in the pool)
- Bib number & safety pins
- Helmet and bike stickers
- Event t-shirt
- Fun items from our sponsors
- Swimsuit or tri suit
- Goggles & towel
- Flip flops
- Bike & helmet (helmets required at all times on the bike course)
- Socks & shoes
- Race shirt (either the provided triathlon shirt or another shirt)
- Race belt (optional)
- Swim cap, bib number, safety pins, helmet/bike stickers (from your race packet)
- Water bottle
The triathlon follows USA Triathlon (USAT) rules:
- No assistance during the swim (resting on lane dividers is allowed, but athletes must continue on their own).
- No diving at the swim start.
- Helmet with chin strap fastened at all times, including in transition.
- No biking inside transition.
- Aero helmets, aero bars, drafting, training wheels, and flotation devices are not allowed.
- Athletes must complete all required distances.
- Breaking any of these rules may result in disqualification (DQ).
That’s completely normal! Encourage your child to attend practice sessions, review course maps, and focus on having fun. The goal is to finish and enjoy the experience, not just compete.
Your child should be able to swim the full race distance for their age group without assistance:
- Ages 5–8: 2 laps (50 yards)
- Ages 9–11: 4 laps (100 yards)
- Ages 12–15: 6 laps (150 yards)
Lifeguards will be stationed for safety. Swimmers may rest on lane dividers if needed, but they must complete the swim on their own. Encouraging your child to practice in advance will help build confidence and make race day more enjoyable.
- Bike: Practice mounting, dismounting, and turning. Make sure the bike is safe and the tires are fully inflated before race day. A bike mechanic may be available near transition for quick fixes, but a tune-up in advance is strongly recommended. If a bike issue occurs during the race, volunteers will assist your child to safely return to transition.
- Run: Practice pacing. Encourage your child to run at a comfortable pace — walking is always allowed.
