2027 - Tonbridge Triathlon

Pool based Swim.
Sprint = 400m Standard = 800m
16/32 lengths in the 25m heated pool, get there in plenty of time and watch the swim unfold in front of you.

Cycle: Open roads with some challenging hilly inclines.
Sprint = 25km Standard = 50km
Sprint = 1 lap of the 25km route
Standard = 2 laps of the 25km route.

Run: Open grassy fields finishing with a 1 lap of a 400m athletics track.
Sprint = 5km Standard = 10km
After a quick change you are on the run, nothing too steep, nothing too flat, mixed terrain, but most trainers will be suited to this environment. Follow the signs and obey the marshals instructions and you will be through the finish 3/4 athleteics track to collect your medal.

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OP Events in Partnership with Tonbridge Lions offer an awesome Sprint and Standard triathlon suitable for a first timer with a safe and clean pool based swim in Tonbridge School Sports centre with controlled lanes and seeded starts, which as the day moves on turns into an early season opener for the seasoned triathlete.

The Lions are dedicating this Triathlon to celebrate the Coronation of Charles III and offer special trophies to both Sprint and Standard Championship winners.

• Medal
• Goody Bag
• Chip timed
• Scenic Routes

Entry & Venue
Swim Time: Ensure your estimated swim time is accurate to assist wave seeding.
Club Name: Enter your official club name if you wish to be scored in the TESE Senior Series.
Venue: Tonbridge School, Tonbridge, Kent (TN10 3AD). Sanctioned by British Triathlon (BT).
Race Passes: All competitors must have a British Triathlon Race Pass or an active BT membership. No Pass = No Race.

Arrival & Logistics
Parking: No athlete parking on-site. Use town centre car parks as will be signed locally (The Castle, The Ivy House, Town Swimming Pool) - approx. a 10-minute walk.
Registration: Registration will open from 6am (and close c.10.15am for adult races) and is located in the School Sports Centre. Register 45–60 minutes before your assigned start time.
Bikes at Registration: Leave your bike in the outdoor rack next to registration while collecting your race pack.

Spectators
There are spectating areas as follows: high level pool gallery, around the school grounds (eg by Transition, playing field areas and on the areas OUTSIDE the running track / Finish area) and anywhere safe on the cycle route.
Keep the athletes’ race routes clear at all times. Transition itself, running track and track inner-field are strictly out of bounds.
There will be some food / beverage outlets on site and there is an athletes' water drinks station at the start/end of each run circuit..

Key Timings & Race Packs
Start Times (approximate):
Standard Triathlon: From ~7:00 am
Sprint & Dual Events: From ~8:30 am
Start times will be confirmed 3 days before Race Day
Race Numbers & Markings: Race numbers must be visible from the rear during the bike leg and from the front on the run. Body markings (applied at Registration) are required for swim entry.
Changing & Belongings: Facilities and toilets are signposted in the Sports Centre lobby. Period products are available in ladies' facilities.

Race Rules & Disciplines
Timing Chips: Collect pool-level 15 minutes before your start, dressed "swim-ready" (Duathletes to be “run ready”). Secure tightly to your left ankle. Do not cross timing mats before your race.
Swim: 6-lane pool, maximum 3 swimmers per lane. Starts are seeded in waves. No tumble turns allowed. Overtaking is permitted only when safe.
Transition: Only competitors are allowed in Transition. Check in with your helmet securely fastened; bike frame, helmet, and bags must show matching numbers. Bar-end plugs are mandatory.
Note (BTF Towel Rule): Standard towels cannot mark space. Only a small flannel (max 12"x12") placed in/under shoes is permitted.
Cycle Route (see below): Open roads apply - obey the Highway Code. A mandatory "foot-down" stop applies when turning left onto Shipbourne Road. Strictly no drafting.
Run route (see below): Is entirely in the school grounds, flat and with the finish on the running track. There is a water station at the start/end of each run circuit.

Trophies & Rankings
Medals: Awarded to all finishers.
Trophies:
Standard & Sprint: Male/Female categories (Senior 15–39 / 17–39, VET 40, VET 50, VET 60, VET 70 & VET 80+).
Duathlon, Aquathlon & Aquabike: Overall winners only
Relay: Top overall team.
My Tri Ranking: Results will be submitted to My Tri Rankings post-race.

Medical & Health Guidelines
Fit to Race: Prioritise your health. Do not compete if you are experiencing illness, viral symptoms, or fatigue.
Medical Form: Complete the medical section on the back of your race bib (existing conditions, medications, emergency contacts).
Medication: Carry essential medications (inhalers, insulin) during the race and notify the medical team upon arrival.
Hydration: Sip water and electrolytes regularly before and during the event. Avoid overhydration.

Inclusivity & Governance
Operating under British Triathlon Equity, Diversity & Inclusion policies.
Pregnancy/postpartum deferrals are available for up to 2 years upon application.
Proud partners with Women in Triathlon.

• Coloured swim hats will be issued to adult swimmers (to assist in lap counting) & returned on completion of the swim. Tristar/Tristart swimmers do not have to wear swim hats (but we can lend hats if needed).