We strongly encourage picking up your child’s packet on Friday (the day before the race) to complete pre-race prep—bike and helmet stickers, bibs, and extra time to set up transition.

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 sticker and bike sticker
• 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)
• Sunscreen
• Water bottle

The triathlon follows USA Triathlon (USAT) rules. The following are some of the key rules and equipment requirements athletes and parents should know:

• Swim: Athletes must complete the swim independently. Resting on lane dividers is allowed, but athletes may not receive assistance from another person.
• Swim Start: No diving at the start of the swim.
• Bike: Athletes must use a traditional, pedal-powered bicycle. Balance bikes, training wheels, and other non-traditional bicycles are not permitted.
• Helmet: A properly fitted helmet with the chin strap securely fastened must be worn at all times while on the bike, including in the transition area.
• Transition: Bicycles must be walked through the transition area; no riding is permitted.
• Equipment & Conduct: Aero helmets, aero bars, drafting, flotation devices, GoPros, and snorkels are not permitted.
• Distances: Athletes must complete all required swim, bike, and run distances.
• Disqualification: Failure to follow any of these rules may result in disqualification (DQ). 

No. For safety, only athletes and volunteers are allowed inside once transition closes. Volunteers will help athletes if needed. Transition reopens after the triathlon ends (announcement will be made). We recommend practicing transitions at home beforehand.

Safety is our top priority. Lifeguards will be stationed at the pool, volunteers will monitor the bike and run courses, and Sportsplex Parkway will be closed starting at 7:00 a.m. for the bike portion. A dedicated medical and safety team will also be on site. 

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, turning, and braking. 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.

Each athlete wears a timing anklet that records split times and the finish time. The triathlon uses a time-trial start, with competitors entering the pool one at a time as directed by the swim coordinator. Results will be posted near the finish line and online.

Every finisher will receive a medal at the finish line. Awards will also be presented to the top three male and female finishers in each age group.

The triathlon is held rain or shine. In the event of severe weather (such as lightning), the race may be delayed, modified, or canceled. Updates will be announced on site and, if possible, via email.

Please reach out through our Contact Page or email us at sportsplextriforkids@gmail.com and we’ll be happy to help.