Kansas

                                         
Capital of Texas Triathlon                                             South Maui Triathlon
Austin, TX                                                                        Maui, HI
Sprint or Olympic Distance                                                Olympic Distance
May 30, 2012                                                                  June 10, 2012

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding TNT Triathlons

Q: What sports make up a triathlon and what are the distances for each sport?
A: A triathlon is made up of three sports in one event: swimming, cycling and running. Within the sport there are two distances: Sprint and Olympic.  The sprint distance consists of a .33 mile (587 yards) swim, 11.5 mile bike, and 3 mile run.  An Olympic-distance triathlon consists of a .9 mile swim, 25 mile bike, and a 6.2 mile run.

Q: Do I have to have completed a triathlon or know how to swim to be on the team?
A: No. TNT works with a lot of beginners and has a flexible training program and capable coaches to help you with all three sports and the transitions between them during the event. TNT coaches are able to teach you how to swim, or to help you become a more efficient swimmer, and they are trained to coach triathletes. Both of our Olympic distance triathlons are great for beginners and advanced triathletes.

Q: Where and when are the trainings?
A: There are 2 triathlon trainings a week.  One training session is held on Saturday or Sunday, while the other one may be Tuesday or Thursday.  We try to fit training sessions into the TEAM's schedule, so dates and times may change throughout the season.

Q: Do I have to purchase all of the gear required for a triathlon?
A: As a nonprofit, we try to minimize expenses in order to spend as much as possible on the mission. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the participant to supply most of the equipment needed to complete the event. You will need a quality bike (hybrid and road bikes are the most common bikes used for these events), a helmet, and swimming and running gear. Some events may also require you to purchase a wet suit as well.  During the season we also offer you an opportunity to purchase a tri suit for the event at a great rate. We have Community Partners throughout the state who offer TNT discounts to help lower your costs. The coaches and mentors are also available to discuss what you will need before you purchase any of the gear. Although triathlon equipment can be expensive, you do not have to spend a lot to complete your event successfully and safely.

Q: Are there resources available to learn about bike maintenance?
A: There is a bike and swim clinic, as well as shoe and apparel, injury prevention and nutrition and hydration clinics. You are also welcome to discuss these topics with your coach or any of our Community Partner stores to create a plan that works for you or to answer questions you may have.

Q: What happens if I can't do all of the workouts on the schedule?
A: You want to aim to do as much of the schedule as you can. However, the training sessions are not mandatory. The people who have the best experience and are the most successful in our program are those who stick to the schedule as much as possible. If you miss a day here or there due to illness, injury or scheduling, don't worry about it. Talk to your coaches - they will work with you to modify your training schedule.

Q: How do I get my bike to the event?
A: For the spring event, participants will drive to and from the event and will take their bikes with them. You will need a quality bike rack or should plan for a teammate to take your bike on theirs. For the Nation's Triathlon in the fall, TNT will arrange for your bike transportation to and from the event. The bikes will be driven there in a truck, and you will pick your bike up when you arrive. This means that you will not have your bike for the week leading up to your event and the few days following it. When the ride is over, the bikes will be trucked back and you will pick you bike up at the LLS office.