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What do I do if I have problems registering online?

Contact the registration site at www.myraceregistration.com

How can I be sure that I'm registered?

First, you should receive a confirmation email from myraceregistration.com. Second, a confirmed participant list will be available shortly before the event.

Are there age requirements?

The minimum age to participate in this event is 10 yrs.

Who do I contact to update my registration information?

You can update your registration information on the registration website:  www.myraceregistration.com.  If that doesn't work, send an email to info@skeese.com

I’ve entered the race, but have become ill or injured.  Am I entitled to a refund?

A $50 refund of registration fees for any type of cancellation is available until the refund deadline. 

Can I do the triathlon with a friend?

 Yes, you can do the tri with a friend, but you must do so individually.  If you are not in the same age group, then you may be starting in different waves.  This means that your friend may be starting a few minutes before or after you.  You can wait in transition for your friend to resume the rest of the tri together.

 May I take an entry from a friend that can no longer participate?

No. Using another registrant's entry is against USAT rules.  If you are caught, you will be banned from participating in any USAT sanctioned event for 3 yrs.  Don’t try it!

 

  

What are the rules?

This event will follow USAT rules. You may view the full list of rules at www.usatriathlon.org

Are disk wheels allowed?

Yes.  If winds, however, are deemed unsafe for disk wheels, the race director will make that announcement the day before the event.

 Can I listen to my ipod on the bike and run?

No, wearing headphones during the event is a violation of USAT rules.  You may wear them prior to the start and after the event, but not during.

Can I pick up a packet for another participant?

No.  USAT rules require each participant to show photo ID while picking up their own packet.

Why do I have to pick up the day before?
At packet pick up you receive a race pack containing your race number, swim cap, T-shirt  and other goodies.  It is essential you get the correct race number and swim cap color for your age category.  If everyone waited until race day to pick up their packets, there would be extremely long lines and frustration.  

What do I need to bring to packet pickup?  

Bring a current photo ID and your USAT card (if you did not sign up for a one-day license online during the registration process).  If you still need a USAT license, you can purchase a one-day or annual license at packet pickup.  

  

  

This is my first triathlon.  Where can I buy my equipment?  How should I train?

If you live near the Austin area, visit Jack & Adam’s Bicycle Shop, our official bicycle sponsor (www.jackandadams.com).  They offer special package deals that include a bike, as well as all the gear you will need to complete your first race.  Also, visit their website to find out information about free workouts.  

 Where do I go on race morning, and what do I need to do before the race?

First, you will take your bike and all other equipment to the transition area.  Upon entering transition, you will be body marked with your race number.  You will rack your bike and then set up your gear.  Next, you will pick up your timing chip at the registration area.  Transition will close 30 minutes prior to the start of the race, so make sure that you have everything you need to start the race.

Do I need a tri bike or other special bike to do the event?

No.  Any type of bike is ok as long as it passes USAT inspection standards.

What kind of equipment do I need to do a race?

There are a few bare essentials that you need to do a race. You will need a bike (anything that is road worthy will do. No need to have a high tech racing bike for your first triathlon), you must have an ANSI/Snell/CSA certified bike helmet (all bike helmets sold today are certified), you probably want goggles for the swim, you need a swim suit, running shoes of some kind, cycling shoes if you have clipless pedals on your bike. That's the bare minimum, really. You may want a hat for the run, sunglasses for the bike and run, a water bottle or two on the bike is a good idea as well. After that, things like wetsuits, fancy wheels for your bike, racing flats to run in, etc. are all extras.

What steps can I take to ensure a successful start?

1. Arrive early
2. Be prepared with necessary race day items
3. Make sure your race number is on the front of your upper arms and on thighs and age on back of calf.
4. Affix “loaner” timing chip and strap to ankle
5. Be sure to affix bike helmet sticker and bike frame number before entering Transition Area
6. Attach Race number to front of shirt that you will be wearing during the Run (use your own race belt or safety pins)
7. Enter Transition Area in an orderly fashion
8. Lay out your gear (sneakers, socks, towel, helmet, water, etc) neatly and concisely next to your racked bike
9. Relax and enjoy the best experience of your life

What should I wear?
Most elite female triathletes do the whole event in their swimsuit. However, since 95% of the entrants are not elite we see lots of different ideas. Many women will throw on a running singlet or t-shirt after they exit the water, some pull on bike/aerobic shorts. If you require extra support during the run, we recommend you wear a bra or crop top under your swimsuit. About 50% will not put socks on but just wear their trainers sockless during the run.

Can I use a mountain bike?
About 35% will be using a mountain bike on the day. We recommend you get road tires (slicks) put on your wheels rather than knobby thick tires. This will make it easier to ride. If your bike is old please have it checked by a bike shop prior to the race as any bikes that are potentially unsafe will not be permitted.

Is there a place to change clothes in transition?

There will not be a designated changing area in transition.  Porta-potties will be available.

Will there be cut-off times?

There have been several finishers in years past who come in at over 2 hours.  Technically the course doesn't "close" because the roads are never closed; they are open to vehicular traffic.  We have volunteers and police on the course, however.

 

 

Is there a place to rent a bike for the triathlon?  

 Yes, you can rent bikes from our bicycle shop sponsor - Jack and Adam's Bicycles.  (www.jackandadams.com)

Is there a place to get my bike inspected before the event?

Free bike inspection is available at Jack & Adam's Bicycle Shop during the week leading up to the event.

What if I forget a key piece of equipment on race day (i.e. bike helmet, googles, etc.)?

A limited number of “extra” equipment will be available on race day for emergencies.  Ask a volunteer in the transition area to help you. 

What can I do if I get a flat tire or have a mechanical problem with my bike?

Bike mechanics will have a tent set up in transition to help with minor mechanical repairs and flat tires before the event.  If you have a problem with your bike during the race, SAG vehicles will be monitoring the course and will be there to assist you.

 

Do I need to buy a wetsuit for the swim?

No.

How is the water?
The swim is about as safe as an open water swim in triathlon can be. It's in a lake made especially for wakeboarding using a cable-tow. It's deep enough that you can't touch, but still very shallow. There is an island in the middle, so you are never more than about 10 meters from shore. There are no boats. We have lots of lifeguards, EMTs, and kayaks there to help.

Will wetsuits be legal?

We cannot say for sure. The water temperature is usually right around 78 degrees for this time of year.  The legal limit for wetsuits is 78. We'll check the temperature a few days before the event and have the information available at packet pickup.

Will I receive a swim cap in my race packet, or do I need to purchase one?

Yes, you will receive a colored swim cap according to your swim wave in your race packet.  It is yours to keep.

I am nervous about the swim.  If I run into trouble, what can I do?

Certified lifeguards will line the swim course to monitor all swimmers.  At any point if you become tired or frightened, you may swim over to the side of the lake and stand.  Flotation devices such as noodles and buoys are not permitted.

Where can I purchase photos from the race?

Race photography is provided by Kruetz Photography: www.kruetzphotography.com.

Photos are generally available 2 weeks after the race.  You should receive an email notification when they are ready for viewing.  

Will my results be available online following the race?

Results are provided by Run Far Racing Services and are available the same day at:  www.run-far.com

Where can I find race results from previous years?

 You can view previous year results HERE. 

I was unable to stay for the awards ceremony.  Where can I pick up my award?

 Contact the race director at info@skeese.com to make arrangements.

 

 

What are the general guidelines for spectators:

1. First and Foremost – Never distract an athlete
2. Follow instructions from all Racing staff, volunteers and public safety
3. Do not at any time, enter the Race course
4. Pacing athletes is not permitted
5. Be aware of areas Off Limits to spectators: fencing, flagging, cones indicate those areas
6. Do NOT lean or push on fencing
7. Use designated crosswalks only when instructed by volunteers
8. Always look both ways and behind you before crossing or changing direction
9. Keep moving in an orderly fashion
10. Do not stop abruptly, keep up with the crowd
11. Racers have the right of way. Spectators MUST yield to racers in progress
12. SPECTATORS and/or FAMILY MEMBERS are NOT permitted in the Transition Area
13. If you are in the front zone, be considerate of others, and allow them to view Race as well
14. Know your athlete’s race number, swim cap color, wave number, wave start time and estimated finish time
15. Have a plan to meet up with your athlete at conclusion of Race
16. Leave plenty of travel time. Expect heavy traffic into Race site and/or Parking area
17. Don’t litter. Use garbage cans and recycle bins.

Where should spectators watch the race?

Spectators are welcome at the Skeese Greets Women's Tri.  Please do not park on the access road to I-35 or stand on the access road of I-35 to watch the event.  The only other place not accessible to spectators is in the transition area.  Good places to watch are near the swim exit, along the run course, outside of the transition area and at the finish line.

Is food available for spectators?

Spectator food and drinks will be available for sale at the Coconutz Bar & Grill at the Ski Ranch.  It is the only place available for spectator food and drink at the race site.  Spectators are strongly encouraged to bring their own drinks and/or snacks.  Water is available to everyone at the Water Monster cooler, a dispensable water tank where cups and bottles can be filled.

Are there relays?

No. There is not a relay category at the Skeese Greets Women's Tri this year.  The distances are shorter than in 2007 when we had a relay division.  

 

Is there an Athena category?

No. There are only the overall and age group divisions.

Why do I need to be a member of USAT or buy a one-day license and what does that insurance cover?

Please visit the following website for information:

http://www.usatriathlon.org/member-services/membership-faq

What is USAT and why do I need a one-day permit?

USAT is the national governing body for triathlons and duathlons in the United States. A one-day license allows a novice athlete to compete in a USA Triathlon-sanctioned race without purchasing a full $39 membership. The $10 fee provides the athlete with excess accident insurance for that race only.   If you have a current yearly membership, then you do not need the one-day permit.

 

Is it better to join USAT or buy the one-day permit?

A one year membership to USAT is $39. Membership includes a subscription to USA Triathlon Times, annual ranking, discounts on merchandise and use of the USAT Travel Desk . Most importantly you don't have to pay an extra $10 at every USAT race for a one-day membership. If you're planning on doing 3-4 USAT races this year, the USAT membership pays for itself.

How do I join USAT?

USAT applications will be available at packet pick up. You must join before hand, or purchase a one day membership for $10. You can join online on the USAT site and bring the confirmation to packet pick up. 

 

How does chip timing work?

Each athlete will wear a "chip" that transmits data to the receiving antenna when the athlete crosses a timing mat. Run-Far Racing Services will utilize the ChampionChip system for the Skeese Greets Women's Tri.

Where do I wear the chip?

A neoprene strap is used to strap the chip to your ankle. You will be given a band when you pick-up your rental chip.

Do I need my own timing chip?  Where can I get one?

No. A timing chip is provided to each participant as part of your registration fee.  It is removed from your ankle when you cross the finish line.  If you own a chip you may use it as long as you registered your chip number during registration or at packet pickup.

Where and when do I pick up my timing chip?

You can pick up your timing chip at the timing chip table on race morning at the race site.  It is included in the event registration fee.

Do I need to wear the chip for the entire race?

Yes, timing mats will be set up to record splits for each leg and transition. If you do not have the chip on when you cross the finish line you are not guaranteed a finish time.

Can I keep my chip?
No, the chips must be turned in at the end of the race. Volunteers will be at the finish line to help with removal.

Where can I look for items lost on race day?

There will be a designated lost & found table at the race site.  After the event you can contact info@skeese.com to find out if your item was recovered. 

Why  are the oldest women starting last?
A staggered start to the Skeese Greets Women's Tri is required due to the physical size of the water start.  The staggered "waves" are divided into age categories with the youngest starting first.  We want everyone to be safe and a staggered start is a way to ensure this. 

Why does the triathlon start so early?
The triathlon is conducted on the roads around Comal and Hays Counties. Sunday morning is when the impact to residents and traffic is minimized.