First-timer’s Guide

The 2019 Triathlon Festival Oman is great for first timers. We hope you enjoy your first race, and that you want to continue experiencing the satisfaction and exhilaration for many years to come.

It can all seem a little overwhelming to begin with, there is new kit to wear, shoes to choose, and funny things called gels to consume. Let us help guide you so you have just what you need for a successful first race!

GEAR UP!

So what gear do you need to compete at the Triathlon Festival Oman?

Check out our table below according to which event you will compete in. Try to borrow items from a friend while you get started in the sport! But if you would like to purchase your own then keep reading for our recommended retailers!

AQUATHLONTRIATHLON
Aquathlon
 SWIM RUN
Tri-suit or swimsuit true
T-shirt (if wearing a swim suit that doesn’t cover your chest) true
Goggles true
Running shoes true
Cap true
Sunglasses true
​​

Triathlon
 SWIM BIKE RUN
Tri-suit or swimsuit true
T-shirt (if wearing a swimsuit that doesn’t cover your chest) true true
Goggles true
Bicycle true
Helmet true
Running shoes true true
Cap true true
Sunglasses true true
TRAINING

A reasonable level of fitness will help ease your nerves going into the race. You don’t need to train every day, a couple of times a week will do. You’ll feel good going into the race if you have done the distance in training. So once you have entered, look at the distances of each leg of the race and try to do some training of the same length. It doesn’t have to be all at once! You can swim one day, and run another.

If you would like some guidance, there are weekly training sessions with like minded athletes. These are group sessions that are lots of fun, with other athletes to give you tips and feedback. Check out our Training page for more information!

AQUATHLON: RACE DAY PROCEDURE

Pre-race

  • Read the e-Brief that will hit your inbox in the days preceding the race to ensure you are aware of all race information
  • Arrive at the venue at least one hour prior to your wave start time
  • Apply sunscreen!
  • Go to the body numbering tent and have your race number stamped on your arms
  • Head to transition, find the spot with your race number and set-up your gear. Running shoes, t-shirt, hat and sunglasses should be left in transition. Swim goggles and cap need to come with you to the start!
  • Place your bag in the bag deposit
  • Head to the swim start!

Swim

  • Wait for your wave number to be called
  • Choose a spot to start, if you are a strong swimmer you may choose to start at the front, if you are not a confident swimmer then we recommend starting at the rear or side
  • Stretch, relax and get ready for a fun time!
  • Wait for the starter to fire the horn
  • Enter the water and enjoy your swim

Transition

  • After exiting the swim, follow the marshals directions and run to the transition area
  • Locate your numbered spot
  • Remove your swim cap and goggles, drop them in your numbered spot
  • Put on your running shoes, t-shirt (if necessary), race number (either on your t-shirt or attached to a race number belt)
  • Look for the run exit sign and head that direction towards the run course

Run

  • Follow the direction signs and marshals instructions as you run along the course
  • Pace yourself and remember to drink at aid stations!

Finish

  • Smile as you cross the line!
  • Volunteers will present you with your medal
  • Walk to the finish line drink station to get a refreshing cold drink!
  • Relax in the festival area and savour the feeling of accomplishment!
    TRIATHLON: RACE DAY PROCEDURE

    Pre-race

    • Read the e-Brief that will hit your inbox in the days preceding the race to ensure you are aware of all race information
    • Arrive at the venue at least one hour prior to your wave start time
    • Apply sunscreen!
    • Go to the body numbering tent and have your race number stamped on your arms
    • Head to transition, find the rack with your race number and rack your bike
    • Set-up your gear: cycling shoes, helmet, running shoes, t-shirt, hat and sunglasses should be left in transition. Swim goggles and cap need to come with you to the start line!
    • Place your bag in the bag deposit
    • Head to the swim start!

    Swim

    • Wait for your wave number to be called
    • Choose a spot to start, if you are a strong swimmer you may choose to start at the front, if you are not a confident swimmer then we recommend starting at the rear or side
    • Stretch, relax and get ready for a fun time!
    • Wait for the starter to fire the horn
    • Enter the water and enjoy your swim

    Transition 1

    • After completing the swim, follow the marshals directions and run to the transition area
    • Locate your numbered bike rack
    • Put on your helmet (and sunglasses if necessary)
    • Put on your running shoes (or cycling shoes if you have them!)
    • Put on your race number (either pinned on your t-shirt or attached to a race number belt)
    • Put on a t-shirt if you have a bare torso
    • Look for the bike exit sign and push your bike in that direction towards the bike course
    • Wait until you see the yellow bike mount line and marshals prior to riding your bike

    Cycle

    • Ride on the right hand side of the road
    • Pass on the left hand side of other cyclists (yell “passing” so your fellow cyclist is aware you are coming)
    • Remember to count your laps
    • Stay at least 5 metres behind the cyclist in front of you at all times
    • After your required number of laps, dismount your bike at the yellow “dismount” line
    • Push your bike back to the transition area

    Transition

    • Keep your helmet on until you have racked your bike back at your numbered bike spot
    • Remove your helmet
    • Put on your running shoes
    • Look for the “Run Out” sign and head that direction

    Run 2

    • Follow the direction signs and marshals instructions as you run along the course
    • Pace yourself and remember to drink at aid stations!
    • At the completion of your run, look for the sign that says “Finish”

    Finish

    • Smile as you cross the line!
    • Volunteers will present you with your medal
    • A volunteer will remove your timing chip
    • Walk to the finish line drink station to get a refreshing cold drink!
    • Relax in the festival area and savour the feeling of accomplishment!
    WHERE TO FIND THE BEST GEAR IN TOWN FOR YOUR RACE!

    Looking to upgrade your race kit or equipment?  Check out these local stores for the best range.

    Triathlon and running: clothing and accessories

    Nutrition

    Bike stores for entry level and mid-range bikes

    Online shopping – these sites deliver to Oman

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