Virginia

Team In Training's triathlon program offers the opportunity to take on the challenge of swimming, cycling, and running an Olympic-distance triathlon and make a difference in the lives of nearly one million Americans living with blood cancers.

Along with a customized-training program and expert coaching, participants will train with a local group of like-minded individuals for motivation and inspiration.

Upcoming Triathlons

Team In Training (TNT) is looking for triathletes for the events listed below.

Please note that participation in a TNT event is subject to the local availability of group training and transportation arrangements. Please consult the TNT staff at your local chapter for additional details.

Philadelphia Insurance Triathlon Olympic Distance June 24, 2012 · Philadelphia, PA

The exciting course will travel through some of the most historic and picturesque sections of the city. The start/finish and transition areas are located just off of West River Drive, near the base of Black Road. It's a beautiful part of Fairmount Park, complete with statues, trees and grassy fields.

I Love The Tavern Triathlon Sprint Distance June 24, 2012 · Richmond, VA

The I Love The Tavern Triathlon is for all levels of experience. The race starts with a 500 meter swim in the James River followed by an 18.8 mile bike course through the rural roads of Powhatan County. Participants will finish with a flat 5K run on shady trails through Robious Landing Park.

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. The Virginia Chapter offers Olympic-distance triathlons, Sprint Distance triathlons and one half Ironman distance triathlon.  The Olympic-distance consists of a .9-mile swim, a 25-mile bike and a 6.2-mile run. The Sprint-distance consists of a 500 meter river swim, an 18.8 mi bike  and a 3.1 mile run or walk. 

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. We offer a sprint distance triathlon in our summer season which is an excellent introduction for beginners.  Additionally, both of our Olympic distance triathlons are great for beginners and advanced triathletes alike.

Q: Where and when are the trainings?
A: Your team will plan to do run and bike workouts together on Saturday mornings. Pool space is available for you and you will have the opportunity to swim with the group at least once a week.  Check with your local staff contact for specific details on pool location in your area. The team swims together the most because many triathlon beginners are particularly concerned about the swim portion of the event. If you can't make one of those practices, you can get the workout from the coaches to do on your own. You'll also follow the training schedule and do one cycling and one running practice on your own during the week.

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 (road bikes are the most common bikes used for these events), a helmet, and swimming and running gear. TNT will purchase a wet suit (when necessary) and a jersey for you. 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. Although, 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 as they will work with you to modify your training schedule.

Q: How do I get my bike to the event?
A: For more local events, 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 St. Anthony's Triathlon in the spring, 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.