Triathlon Course - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Although we are not a USAT sanctioned event, we do follow USAT rules, with only a few exceptions in areas that don't affect safety. For example, we allow recumbent bikes which would not be allowed in a USAT event. For more information on USAT rules, you can download a PDF copy for personal use at: http://www.usatriathlon.org/upload/pdfs/usat_rules_download.pdf.
Yes. Our goal is to provide a safe and enjoyable event for all participants, spectators, and volunteers. Participates demonstrating unsportsmanlike behavior will be disqualified and asked to leave the race site immediately. Non-participants demonstrating unsportsmanlike behavior will be asked to leave the race site immediately. Here's the guidelines for general conduct at or during the event, or while at the race site:
- Conduct oneself in a manner that is not offensive in any way to fellow participants, spectators, officials or volunteers and is considered reasonable and acceptable in the community.
- Treat all participants, officials, volunteers and spectators with fairness, respect and courtesy.
- Refrain from the use of abusive language or conduct.
- Act in compliance with competitive rules.
Perfect Time Events of Seattle is once again our timing company for the event. Their timing system uses the Winning Time Chip. You will receive a chip and instructions for putting it on your ankle in your race packet. This chip must be returned at the finish line, or, if you are unable to attend the event it may be mailed, in a PADDED envelope to: Perfect Time Events PO Box 31845 Seattle, WA 98103. You will be billed $30.00 for your un-returned chip.
Just after you cross the Finish Line, a volunteer will remove the timing chip from your leg and put it in a collection bin. But if you don't cross the Finish Line and this doesn't happen, then you are responsible for returning your chip. At the race site, you can turn the chip at the packet pickup tables or give it to any Finish Line worker. You can mail the chip back in a PADDED envelope please, so the post office machines don't eat it -- to the following address:
- Perfect Time Events
- P.O. Box 31845
- Seattle, WA 98103
There is a $30.00 fee for all chips not collected within 30 days.
To quote the USA Triathlon rulebook: "The sole responsibility of knowing and following the prescribed courses rests with each participant. No adjustments in times or results shall be made for participants who fail to follow the proper course for any reason whatsoever." Your first step is to go to www.issaquahtri.com and click on the Course Maps link. On this page you will find maps for every course. Scroll down this page, and you will find links to documents with detailed descriptions of each course. We recommend studying these maps and descriptions. If you have the time and inclination you might want to come over to the Park prior to race day and give the courses a whirl. (Keep in mind that everything will be much drier by race day then it is earlier in the season!)
On race day you will find each course well marked with signs and other markings, and volunteer Course Marshals that will point you in the right direction. Still, it helps to have an understanding of where you're going. Knowing each course allows you to really focus on your performance in each of the three disciplines instead of anxiously looking about wondering where the next turn will be. Knowing the course improves safety for you and your fellow competitors.
We do not have hard cut off times for each leg of the sprint triathlon, but we do have some targets:
- Swim - 30 minutes after the start of the last swim wave
- Bike - 2 hours after the start of the last swim wave
- Run - 3.5 hours after the start of the last swim wave
We have an official "Last Person" that acts a sweeper for each of the courses. Our Last Person always stays just behind whoever is at the back of the field. Once the Last Person has re-entered the TA, then we begin breaking down the course just completed. The only course where we really keep an eye on time is the bike course. We like to get the roadways completely open for traffic as soon as possible (and let all the police officers get back to other aspects of their jobs).
No. For safety reasons music players and headphones are not allowed on any of the courses. These systems provide too much distraction and restrict your hearing, making it difficult for Course Marshals or other competitors to communicate with you.
There's just too much information to provide here. Try doing an online search for "triathlon training." You'll be amazed at the number of sites providing everything from an overview and basic information down to nitty gritty details on training techniques, race tips, and more. You'll also learn about the Transition Area where you will leave all your gear (swim stuff, bicycle, running shoes, etc.) while you are doing different parts of the race. A local organization that provides great support is the Seattle Triathlon Club. Check out their site at www.seatri.org . When you're ready to get familiar with the specifics of the Issaquah Triathlon, go to www.issaquahtri.com. You'll find course maps for each of the courses, detailed course description documents, a schedule for race day, and more. If you have specific questions, email info@issaquahtri.com
Registration
Volunteers
