What equipment do I need?
To take part in the triathlon the minimum equipment needed is togs, shorts, a t-shirt or vest, bike, helmet, and running shoes. Most people use goggles for the swim.
Where do I get changed?
Pre and post-event there are changing rooms and toilets at the Ōtaki pool. During the race, you'll need to change in the transition area. It's best to wear your togs then put your shorts and shirt over the top. There is no nudity allowed in transition. Showers and changing rooms at the pool will be available for use after the event.
Where do I put my equipment and clothes for the other legs?
There will be racking for your bike – hook the seat over the crossbar. You'll then have the space under your bike to lay out your gear. No large bags or boxes are allowed under the bikes. There will be an area to leave extra gear, but we encourage you to leave anything you need for before or after the event with whānau or friends that have come to support you as there may be a delay getting back into the transition area after you've finished.
How do I attach my race number?
You'll be given two race number squares, these aren’t to be worn during the swim. Pin one number to the front of your shirt or vest and the other to the back, it is essential to wear these during the bike and run.
What kind of bike can I use?
You can use most types of bikes, except a fixed rear wheel bike. Your bike needs to be safe and working, including brakes. No safety checks will be done by marshals or officials on the day so make sure you know everything is working for your own and others’ safety.
A visual check will be completed as part of racking your bike in the transition area.
How do I know where to go?
There will be signage around the transition area, the bike, and run legs to guide you. It's your responsibility to know the course, maps will be added to the website and will be displayed at registration on the day. Familiarise yourself with the courses, there will be training and familiarisation sessions available in the lead-up to the event. Keep your eye on our social pages and website or ask at Ōtaki Pool or Coastlands Aquatics Centre reception for information.
What happens on the day?
When you arrive sign at the registration table, between 6–7.30am, you’ll be given your race pack which will include your race numbers to attach to your shirt (front and back) and numbered stickers for your helmet and bike. Your race number will also be written on your hand. Then attach your numbers to your bike and helmet before taking them to the transition area. With your helmet on, take your bike to the transition area, for racking. Your numbers will be checked and there will be a visual look over your bike. You’ll then rack your bike and lay out your equipment for the other legs. Familiarise yourself with where you need to go for each leg, then relax, take in the atmosphere, and prepare for your start.
Training sessions
We are holding training sessions, prior to the event, they will be held by our wonderful Swim Instructor Kay and top-level triathletes Danielle and Lucas from Coast Endurance,
Everyone is welcome to join these casual training sessions, they are a great way to get fit, work on your technique, and prepare for the day. Sessions cost just the usual pool entry and include a swim/ spa afterward. There is no need to book, just turn up ready to go.
SWIMMING, 5.30-6.30pm, Tuesdays
RUNNING, 6-7pm, Wednesdays
What training do I need to do?
You will need to be able to complete the distance for each leg, you can walk/run the run if you wish, this is a great event to give you the motivation to get fit or for training. Likewise, it’s a great event for those seasoned triathletes kicking off their 2023/24 season.
What happens if I get a flat tyre or similar out on the bike leg?
Officially it is your responsibility to fix any mechanical issues during the event. If you are near a marshal, please let them know. We will have people out on the course who will be able to help if they are near you. If you can assist another participant, we’d like to encourage you to do so, please.
What if I have to pull out of the race once I've started?
Notify the closest Marshal, they’ll check if you need any medical or other assistance. Then you'll need to hand in your timing chip to the race official back at the transition area.
If you see someone that needs assistance on the race-course and there isn’t a marshal nearby, please ensure there is someone with them if needed, and then ride or run to the next marshal and inform them.
Will photos/ videos be taken and what will they be used for?
We will have someone taking photographs and/or video for publicity purposes. The photos could appear in social media or print promotional materials about this event or similar council-run events. Photographs could be of wide groups of people or close-ups of individual competitors. We understand that not everyone is comfortable being photographed so please talk to our team when you collect your registration kit, if you do not wish to appear in any of the photos you will be given a coloured sticker to put on your bib so the photographer will know to delete any images where you are identifiable. If you have any questions about the photos, please email us otaki.pool@kapiticoast.govt.nz