Do I have to wear a wetsuit?
Yes, this is mandatory for all of our events and must cover the torso & thighs. It must NOT cover the hands and feet. British Triathlon Federation rules state that the wetsuit must not be thicker than 5mm in any position (including where patch-repair has been made). Non-Triathlon wetsuits are not designed to be flexible around the shoulders and arms and will take on extra water so it is recommended you race in a triathlon wetsuit.
Can I wear my own swim hat?
If you wish to wear your own sim hat you can, but you MUST wear the race issue hat on top.
What stroke can I use?
Although BTF rules have now allowed backstroke we will not allow you to do this stroke. Front facing strokes only.
How is the start organised?
The swim is a mass start, therefore you will need to get into position before the starting gun. If you think you are in with a chance, then get to the front, if not try and position yourself on the basis of faster swimmers at the front, slower swimmers at the back.
How early should I be at the swim start?
You should be at the start at least fifteen minutes before the race to hear the race briefing and to find a suitable position.
How do you marshal/ensure safety on the swim?
There will be support boats and kayaks with qualified life-saving personnel on hand. There will be a race briefing prior to the start, but if you have problems, it is standard procedure to lie on your back and raise your hand in the air, and you will be picked out of the water as soon as possible.
Can I use Tri Bars (aerobars)?
Yes Tri Bars are allowed.
Do I need a specific type of bike?
You can use any bike that is roadworthy and complies with the BTF rules. However you MUST not use electric bikes or tandems.
Do I need a specific helmet?
Your helmet MUST meet the British Triathlon specifications of ANSI Z90.4, SNELL B90, EN 1078. A "CE" mark is not an approved mark and therefore is not acceptable. The helmet must not have any cracks in it and the strap must be in good working order.
Where do I wear my timing chip?
You must wear your timing chip on your left ankle.
Where do I have to apply the bike and helmet stickers?
You must apply one sticker on your bike post and one on the front of your helmet.
Will there be drink/feed stations en route?
There are no drink/feed stations on the course as this is a sprint distance but there will be water at the finish line.
Is drafting permitted during the race?
No drafting is not permitted.
Can I wear headphones?
No, we discourage anyone wearing headphones during the race.
Is the run mainly on roads or is it multi-terrain?
The run covers both roads and multi-terrain.
Is there a cut off?
Yes, 11.00am is the last athlete cut-off time.
