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Additional Guidance for Organisers of Children’s Events

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Introduction

What Events do England Cover?

Choosing the Right Event and the Right Course

Course Design Swim (Pool Based) Swim (Open Water) Bike Run Transition Area

Event Safety

Counting and Timing

Appendices Appendix 1: Example of Information Pack Appendix 2: Helpful Hints for Responsible Adults

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This guide has been designed to provide information and advice for organisers of Triathlon England permitted children’s events. It highlights key areas for consideration and complements the more detailed information about event organisation that can be found within the Triathlon England Guide to Organising Events.

It is for guidance only and although every care has been taken in its development, Triathlon England cannot accept responsibility for any loss or negligence arising out of its use.

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Event Types Triathlon England is the National Governing Body for triathlon (swim/bike/run), (run/bike) and aquathlon (swim/run).

Occasionally one of the disciplines may be changed e.g. use of a rowing machine instead of a swim and the event may still be permitted by Triathlon England. For further advice please contact your Regional Manager or the Triathlon England Head Office.

Age Categories Children’s events cater for children aged from 8 years to 14 years.

Competitors are split into different age groups:

Age Group Age (as at 31st December in the current year) Tristars Start 8 years Tristar 1 9 – 10 years Tristar 2 11 – 12 years Tristar 3 13 – 14 years Youths 15 – 16 years Junior B 17 – 18 years

With parental consent Youth athletes are eligible to compete at adult events and Junior B athletes are able to complete in events up to standard distance.

Distances The following maximum race distances are applicable to each age group:

Swim Swim Cycle Cycle Triathlon Run (pool) (open water) (grass) (tarmac) Min 50m Tristars Start 50m 800m 1.5km 600m Max 100m Min 150m Tristar 1 150m 2km 4km 1.2km Max 200m Min 200m Tristar 2 200m 4km 6km 1.8km Max 300m Min 300m Tristar 3 300m 6km 8km 2.4km Max 350m

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Duathlon Run Bike (grass) Bike (tarmac) Run Tristars Start 400m 800m 1.5km 200m Tristar 1 1.2km 2km 4km 400m Tristar 2 1.6km 4km 6km 600m Tristar 3 2km 6km 8km 800m

Aquathlon Swim (pool) Swim (open water) Run Tristars Start 50m Min 50m 600m Max 100m Tristar 1 150m Min 150m 1.5km Max 200m Tristar 2 250m Min 200m 2km Max 300m Tristar 3 400m Min 300m 3km Max 350m

Open Water Events There are some additional considerations that need to be taken into account for events where the swim is taking place in open water: • Wetsuits are compulsory for water temperatures <14°C , optional for water temperatures >14°C and <22°C, banned for water temperatures >22°C. • The minimum permissible open water temperature in which children can swim is 11°C. • The maximum swim distances highlighted above can only be used when the water temperature is 13°C or above. • When the water temperature is between 11°C and 13°C the swim distance should be reduced by an appropriate amount taking into account other climatic factors e.g. wind chill, air temperature. To agree the distance the event organiser should consult with other key people such as the Race Official, the Safety Officer and/or local experts.

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Basic Principles When researching venues for a children’s event there are some basic principles to take into consideration: • The cycle and the run disciplines must take place on traffic-free circuits. Take care not to choose a venue that is too open to members of the public who are not connected with the event, unless you can put in place adequate management arrangements to prevent them getting onto the course. • Competitors must remain in sight of event staff/officials at all times and so a lapped course will be the easiest to organise and manage. The greater the number of laps the greater the chance of lap counting errors so it is important to make the laps a reasonable length. As a guideline a bike lap of around 750m-1km and a run lap of 400-800m is usually sufficient.

Some other considerations: • If the cycle course cannot be traffic-free consider organising an aquathlon event. • If you do not have access to a pool (or suitable open water) consider organising a Duathlon event or replace the swim with an alternative activity. • If the majority of competitors are likely to be participating for the first time consider keeping the distances short and the technical challenges (e.g. hills requiring gear changes, sharp turns) to a minimum.

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Swim (Pool Based) General considerations: • For safety reasons it is better if swimmers can exit the pool at the shallow end and by their own efforts. • When in lanes there should be no more than four swimmers per lane at any time. • Swimmers must always start in the water, dive starts are not permitted.

There are three basic course designs for pool-based swims:

1. Lap Swim

Competitors swim laps in lanes with the direction of swim in each lane alternating as outlined in the diagram above. The swimmers in lanes 1, 3 and 5 swim in an anti-clockwise direction, the swimmers in lanes 2, 4 and 6 swim in a clockwise direction. The alternating direction means that when swimmers in neighbouring lanes are swimming alongside each other their arms are moving in the same direction minimising the risk of injury in the event of a collision.

This design is ideal for accommodating a large number of swimmers starting in waves and it makes it easier to calculate results. However, it can be intimidating for inexperienced and/ or weaker swimmers.

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2. Snake Swim

Competitors swim in lanes and complete two lengths before ducking under the lane rope and completing another two lengths in the neighbouring lane. In the example above, a swimmer would complete 12 lengths in total if they started in lane 1 and finished in lane 6. However, the total distance swum can be adjusted by starting in a different lane for example starting in lane 3 and finishing in lane 6 would mean that eight lengths are swum. Swimmers are set off at regular intervals e.g. every 15 seconds.

This design is less intimidating for inexperienced and/or weaker swimmers but it can be more complicated for calculating results.

3. Buoy Swim

This course can provide a good introduction to the format of in a safer environment, with competitors swimming around the outside of the buoys. It also has the benefit of swimmers being close to the sides at all times, so can be good for weaker swimmers, or if swimming strength is unknown.

It is a good way to introduce children to the sport, particularly in a non-competitive event with a very short (50 – 75m) swim but it is not really suitable for more competitive events or events requiring a longer swim distance.

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Swim (Open Water) The considerations for designing an open water swim course for children are largely the same as for adult events (see the Course Design Module in the Triathlon England Guide to Organising Events) but with extra emphasis on design features to promote safety and ease of navigation. The start should be either from the shore if underfoot conditions allow smooth and safe entry to the water or in shallow water where competitors are able to stand. When considering the size of the waves thought should be given to a number of factors including the width of the start area and the experience of the competitors. Triathlon England recommend as a starting point that 8-10 year olds are allocated 1m of space each on the start line. This is reduced to 75cm for 11-12 year olds and reduced again to 50cm for 13 and 14 year olds. For 15 year olds and above Triathlon England recommends maximum wave sizes of no more than 120 athletes. The course should be based in shallow water and as far as possible run parallel to the shore/bank. If turns are required the distance to the first turn buoy should be a minimum of 50m to allow swimmers to settle into their stroke and for the faster swimmers to move ahead of the slower swimmers. Safety cover should be positioned both on the bank and on the water. The craft should be positioned no more than 25m apart with no more than 10 competitors per safety craft. Buoys should be brightly coloured, positioned no more than 50m apart and sit a minimum of 1m above the water. Consideration should also be given to providing a lead kayaker to guide the lead swimmers around courses that include a change in direction. Lane ropes can be a useful device to help guide swimmers, particularly towards the finish line but care must be taken not to compromise the ability of safety craft to access swimmers that may get into difficulty.

Bike Whether based on or off road the fundamental principles for the bike course design are that: • it is traffic free; • the competitors are in sight of event staff at all times; • it is easy to prevent/manage access to or across the course by spectators or members of the public and where necessary course access and crossing is easy to manage; and • fluids must be made available (i.e. drinks station) to competitors at both the start and finish of the bike section.

Lapped courses with short laps can cause counting difficulties due to the need to complete multiple laps and so distances of 750m to 1km generally offer the most practical solution.

There are a number of safety considerations to take into account when designing the bike course: • Do not have any points where cyclists crossover. • Ensure the level of difficulty is appropriate for the level of competitor. • If spectators/public do need to cross the course design specific signed and marshalled crossing points. • Create a sufficiently long “run off” from the end of the lap to the bike dismount line and similarly ensure that there is sufficient stopping/dismount distance from dismount line to the entrance to transition. Contents Previous Next Contents Previous Next

1. Tarmac Courses • Try to avoid changes of surface (e.g. metal drain covers) particularly where competitors are changing direction. • Try to avoid speed bumps or if this is not possible take appropriate steps to highlight their presence (e.g. competitor briefing, signage, marshals). • If there are any points on the course where vehicles could emerge unexpectedly put robust management arrangements in place (e.g. barriers/cones/marshals).

2. Off Road Courses • Ensure that any grass is kept short. • Ensure that the course is wide enough to allow competitors to overtake each other safely – typically a minimum width of 2m should be maintained around the whole route. • Try to avoid sharp changes of direction, particularly on wet grass, where competitors may be travelling at speed. • Ensure that the course is well-marked and position marshals at all turn points.

Run The same fundamental principles and safety considerations apply to the design of the run course as the bike course. With the following additions: • The run course should not intersect the bike course at any point. • Fluids must be made available (i.e. drinks station) to competitors at both the start and finish of the bike section. • Try to design the run course so that it is close to and encourages spectator support as most children find the run section the toughest, particularly when tired, and benefit from increased motivation. • Try to create a straight, flat finish funnel (50 – 100m long) that is wide enough to accommodate a sprint finish.

Where finish gantries are used to highlight the finish line the width of the finish funnel is normally dictated by the internal span gantry.

Lap courses with distances between 500m to 1km are generally the most practical.

Transition Area The Transition Area is often referred to as the hub of the event. This is the area where competitors change disciplines.

Whilst there are variations the most common Transitions are:

Event Transition 1 (T1) Transition 2 (T2) Triathlon Swim to bike Bike to run Duathlon Run to bike Bike to run Aquathlon Swim to run

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It is most common to operate one Transition Area to manage both T1 and T2 as it requires less space, fewer resources and is more spectator friendly. Having separate transition areas can work well at course-constrained venues or where the competitors are very young as it simplifies the transition.

*As a further simplification some organisers arrange the second transition (T2) area so that marshals take the bikes and helmets from the children making it much easier for the children and reducing the amount of space required for T2 as the bikes and helmets can be stored neatly but this does require more marshals.

Transition Areas can be based either on hard-standing (e.g. tarmac) or grass but underfoot conditions must be taken into account as the competitors will, at times, be either barefoot or in socks.

Whether designing either a single transition area or separate transition areas the key aims to achieve are:

SAFE: Ensuring the entrances/exits are wide enough, there is large enough to allow sufficient space for equipment and competitors moving with their bikes (on foot as no cycling is permitted in transition), the “flow” of competitors through transition avoids crossover and sharp changes of direction as far as possible, the area is kept tidy and free from tripping hazards.

FAIR: All competitors cover the same distance, all transition spaces are the same size. An example of how this might look at a triathlon event is illustrated below:

SECURE: Only competitors (and event staff/officials) are allowed in the Transition Area so the area should be barriered/coned off.

NOTE: Bike racking is becoming more commonplace at children’s events as it offers a neat, space-saving option and, in most cases, is quick to install. It is important to bear in mind the different sizes and types of bike and the differing sizes of competitors and ensure the racking is of an appropriate design and height. With the exception of higher profile events it is perfectly acceptable to use alternative methods to store bikes provided that they are stable, alternatively bikes can be laid down on the floor but this does require a much larger space.

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Come And Tri/Try a Tri Events An excellent way to introduce children to triathlon is to hold a non-competitive, non-timed “Come and Tri” or a “Try a Tri” event where the emphasis is taking part and having a great time. The provision of equipment (bikes and helmets) makes the event as accessible as possible, particularly to large numbers of children e.g. from schools. In such circumstances it is essential to have a well-managed and organised transition area as illustrated below:

This transition layout/management is not appropriate for competitive, timed events because there are times when children may be required to queue while they await helmet and/or bike fitting putting them at an obvious time disadvantage to other children who may not need to queue.

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Risk Assessment Triathlon England firmly believes that adopting a safety-first approach to event organisation based on a careful assessment of the potential hazards, the associated risks and the management arrangements put in place to mitigate them.

To assist organisers Triathlon England has produced a comprehensive risk assessing guide (see Triathlon England Guide to Risk Assessing) which covers topics including: • what is a risk assessment; • what should be risk assessed; • when should you undertake a risk assessment; • how to undertake a risk assessment; and • good practice when risk assessing.

The process of risk assessing an event for children does not fundamentally differ to that used for an adult event in that risk assessments should be undertaken for: • the course(s); • the site build and breakdown; • the level of medical cover required; and • for any other supporting activities.

However special consideration should be given to the age and experience of the competitors and their ability to understand the complexities of the event. This is likely to require more robust management and support mechanisms.

Child Protection Where events for children do differ significantly to adult events is in the need to consider child protection/safeguarding issues.

It is good practice to appoint a nominated Safeguarder as part of the event management team with responsibility for developing and implementing safeguarding protocols and procedures.

There is an example of an event safeguarding risk assessment on the Event Organisers System.

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One of the more difficult situations to manage can be over-zealous parents/coaches who can put undue pressure on their children to perform causing distress and anxiety. The safeguarder may ultimately need to get involved and speak to the adult but there are steps that can be taken to minimise the risk including: • Provide guidance for parents/coaches with the pre-event information (see Appendix 1 for an example of pre-event information). • Include key messages for parents/coaches in the pre-event briefing(s). • Identify specific viewing areas for parents/coaches which can be “managed” – encouraging positive support and discouraging people from trying to run alongside their child as they compete.

The rules of the sport prohibit outside assistance so there is no need for parents/coaches to get too close.

Triathlon England has a Lead Safeguarding Officer who can be contacted by contacting the Triathlon England office on 01509 226161 for further advice.

Other useful contacts: • NSPCC Welfare Officer; NSPCC 0808 800 5000, NPSCC Textphone service; 0808 100 1033. • Childline 0800 1111, Childline Textphone service 0800 400.

Rules Organisers should familiarise themselves with the rules of the sport, many of which are in the interests of safety and should be considered during the risk assessment process.

The full set of rules, including a specific section for children’s events, can be downloaded from the Event Organisers System.

Further guidance to help parents prepare their child(ren) and their equipment is included in Appendix 2.

Briefings A core component of the safety arrangements at an event are the event briefings for both the event staff and for the competitors. Briefings should be prepared in advance, written down and delivered by the most appropriate people. You could also look to hold a separate briefing for the competitors parents/guardians which outlines what behaviours are expected of them and any key rules that the athletes must adhere to.

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Event Staff Each section leader (e.g. swim, bike, run, transition) should brief their own team on their duties and responsibilities. Consider providing handouts detailing things like: • duties; • course; • site map highlighting the location of key facilities e.g. First Aid, Lost Children, Information Point, Toilets; • emergency action plan/evacuation point; and • key contact numbers.

The Section Leaders should also ensure that their teams are readily identifiable (e.g. wearing high visibility tabards).

As a minimum team briefings should take place before the start of the event but ideally prior to the arrival of competitors on site.

Competitors The event briefing can help set the right tone for the event. There is no particular person/role who should deliver the briefing although it is more likely to be the overall organiser or a senior member of the management team because they are most likely to be familiar with the course details, the management arrangements and the location of key services. The key attributes required are: • clarity; • confidence; and • ability to deliver in a child-friendly way that is pitched appropriately for the level of the event.

Invite the event official to highlight the key rules and what they will be looking out for. It is worth discussing this with the event official in the days/weeks prior to the event so that the content and approach can be agreed. If possible it is also good to have the Section Leaders present at the briefing so that they can be introduced to the competitors.

If space allows, it is better to invite parents/carers/coaches to join their child(ren) at the event briefing so that they can help reinforce key messages and so that they get an understanding of the rules and what is/isn’t acceptable.

If practical it is also worth walking part of the course with the competitors or encourage the parents to do so (but not once the event has already started).

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Given that the vast majority of children’s events are multi-lap and multi-discipline there is plenty of potential for mistakes to be made both in lap counting and timing which can create problems that detract from the overall enjoyment of the event.

It is worth spending time researching and planning the most appropriate method for an event, within the available budget and staffing resources. Arguably the best source of advice and information are other organisers the majority of whom would be happy to share their experience, particularly in return for volunteering to help at one of their events. Some things to bear in mind are outlined below.

Lap Counting Swim (Pool Based): Lap Swim Course Design Whilst swimmers should be briefed that they are responsible for counting their own lengths/ laps it is strongly advised to have lap counters at the end of the pool where the swimmers enter/exit the water.

With several swimmers (ideally no more than four) in the lane at any time it can be difficult for lap counters to keep track but it can be simplified by: • having more than one lap counter at the end of each lane; • providing lap counters with pre-prepared lap counting sheets and clipboards; and • providing different colour hats for each swimmer. Hats can be taken off at the end of the swim and re-used by subsequent swimmers.

It is also a good idea to advise swimmers when they only have two lengths to go. The easiest way to do this is by using a visual aid e.g. a float held underwater against the side of the pool that the swimmer can see as they approach the end of the lane.

Bike It is advisable to have a minimum of two lap counters on the bike course as there are three key duties: • reading race numbers; • recording race numbers; and • advising competitors when they have finished if they haven’t.

It is preferable to have the lap counting point towards the end of the lap, ideally where there is a good sight line so that the counters have time to read the race number and advise competitors when they have completed the bike and should head in to transition.

Avoid having the lap counting position at a high speed part of the course and also check that the lap counter(s) are not dyslexic.

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Run Generally speaking it is easier to lap count on the run than on the bike because of the speed of the competitors. It is also possible to eliminate the need to lap count altogether by the use of rubber bands. This involves each competitor being given a rubber band which they put on their wrist at the beginning of each lap so when they have collected the number of bands equivalent to the number of laps they have to run they know that they cross the finish line at the end of the last lap i.e. for a four lap run each competitor crossing the finish line should have four rubber bands (which can then be collected and recycled).

NOTE: The rubber band system works well on the run course because of the relatively slow speed of the competitors and because they don’t have to control any other equipment at the same time. For safety reasons it is not recommended to use the system for lap counting on the bike section.

Timing For all timed events the most basic requirement is to ensure all competitors receive an overall time for completing the event based on a clock from the time the competitor starts the first discipline to the time the competitor crosses the finish line so prizes can be awarded appropriately. Depending on the level of the event there may be a need/wish or expectation to produce a more detailed timing breakdown (known as “timing splits”) which identifies the time taken for each discipline and each transition as well as the overall time.

There are lots of timing packages available which fall into three categories: • Manual: requiring a number of people with stop watches and recording sheets; • Electronic: using transponders or “chips” that register a time when they cross over special timing mats; and • Hybrid systems that involve elements of both manual and electronic systems.

Electronic systems are generally the quickest and most efficient at producing results.

Electronic timing reduces the number of event staff required, however even at a basic level it can be costly and the more detailed the timing splits required the higher the costs as a greater number of timing mats are required. It also requires some form of manual back-up to achieve the basic requirement of an overall time in the event of a system failure.

However, the service is normally provided by an external supplier with considerable experience of event timing – leaving the organiser to concentrate on other aspects of the event.

NOTE: If electronic timing is identified as the preferred timing method it is very important that the organiser and timing supplier agree a clear brief on the level of timing detail required, the different race categories and also the format that the timing company require competitor details well in advance of the event – ideally based on a site visit to identify timing mat positions.

Manual timing is cheaper. As long as it is carefully planned it is not as prone to a system failure but is prone to human failure and, depending on the complexity of the results requires a greater number of event staff.

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Appendices

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Big Fun Triathlon Sunday 12th June 2011 Event Information

Welcome Thank you for entering the 2011 Big Fun. We look forward to helping you get the most from your Triathlon experience. There will be plenty of helpers to advise and guide you on the day but this information pack is designed to help you prepare thoroughly in advance. Please take time to read the information carefully so that you understand what to expect and can concentrate on the main objective for the day – enjoying the race!

Venue The event is being held at: Top Banana Leisure Centre Transition Road Tritown

Event Programme Ne Allot timings: may be subject to change. Any changes to the programme will be highlighted at registration – please register in good time.

Time Activity Where 9.30am Registration Foyer 10am Event Briefing Transition Area 10.30am Event Start Swimming Pool 11.45am Award Ceremony Sports Hall

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Registration Registration will take place in the foyer adjacent to the swimming pool and will be open from 9.30am. At registration you will collect your race number, a helmet sticker, a bike sticker, and a coloured swim hat.

• Race Number – this should be worn on the front of the shirt that you will be wearing for the cycle and the run. • Bike Sticker – this should be stuck on your bike frame so that it is easily seen • Helmet Sticker – this should be stuck on the front of your helmet • Coloured Swim Hat – this should be worn during the swim section of the race.

You will also have your race number marked on your upper arm.

Once you have registered, stuck your bike and helmet stickers on you are ready to go to the Transition Area.

Transition Area (fenced area, adjacent to the skate park at the rear of the building). This is the most important and the busiest area of the course. It is where you collect your bike after the swim section and where you return your bike to after the cycle section before heading out on the run. It is a fenced area with different “gates” for you to pass through depending on which discipline you are finishing or about to begin.

It can get quite confusing because of all the comings and goings but by spending a bit of time studying the course map and also looking at Transition when you arrive everything should be quite clear. It will also be clearly explained to you in the event briefing which will be held in the Transition Area.

As Transition can get quite hectic only athletes and officials will be allowed in. There will be helpers on hand to assist you to place your bike in the correct position and sort out the things you will need to leave in transition and the things you will need to take with you to the swim start.

In brief:

Things to leave in transition before the start: • bike; • helmet; • t-shirt with race number attached to the front; and • running shoes.

Things to take to the swim start: • coloured swim hat; and • goggles – if you wear them.

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In Transition you will see rows of numbers marked on the ground. You will be advised which row you should take your bike to. Find your race number and lay your bike on the ground as directed by the Transition helpers and then lay out your T-shirt, helmet and running shoes next to your bike.

While you are in Transition make a note of the “gates”. There are three: 1. Swim In and Run Out – where you will be coming IN from the swim and where you will be going OUT on the run. 2. Bike Out and Bike In – where you will be going OUT with your bike at the start of the bike ride and also where you will be coming back IN with your bike at the end of the ride. 3. A separate entry/exit gate to use when not competing.

When you have completed the Triathlon you can collect your belongings from the Transition Area – but please remember to have your race number to gain access and please use the entry/exit gate.

Important: Because the Transition Area can be quite hectic and confusing when the event is in full flow it is important that you keep alert. Please do not use mobile phones or ipods in Transition. Also, please make sure that you place any belongings neatly next to your bike – do not throw clothing/equipment onto the ground which can become tripping hazards for other competitors.

Briefing It is absolutely essential that you attend the race briefing and listen carefully. The briefing will confirm the race course, the programme and any late changes. It is also an opportunity for you to ask any questions.

It’s a good idea to bring an adult with you so that they understand how things will work and can help and support you.

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Course Description

Swim – 70m

Please report to the poolside at least 10 minutes prior to your swim time. Please make sure you are wearing your coloured swim hat and have your goggles ready.

On entering the pool hall you will be asked to wait in a line based on your race number. When the time comes you will be asked to enter the water using the steps/ramp at the shallow end of the pool and wait at the swim start. There will be no dive starts.

You will swim along the length of the pool near to the wall and turn left at buoy no. 1, then swim across the pool before turning left at buoy no. 2 before finally swimming back down the length of the pool to buoy no.3.

Your swim finishes when you reach the steps at the shallow end adjacent to the Fire Exit. You exit the pool using the steps and leave the pool hall through the Fire Exit.

Note: • Spectators will NOT be allowed on the poolside. They can watch from the spectator gallery at the side of the pool BUT the best place for your supporters is on the field immediately outside the pool where they can watch you go into the Transition Area. • Photography is NOT allowed in the pool hall.

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Cycle – 1km

The cycle course is a 350m, grass-based lap. It is totally flat but is only suitable for mountain-bikes or other bikes with “fat” tyres. bikes are NOT allowed.

You will be cycling three laps so don’t go off too hard – pace yourself.

Important notes: • Helmets MUST be put on and fastened BEFORE picking up your bike. • NO CYCLING IN TRANSITION. • You must not mount your bike until you have crossed the Mount Line (just outside the Transition Area). • At the end of the bike course you must dismount at the Dismount Line. • Do not unfasten your helmet until you have laid your bike back down in the Transition Area.

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Run – 600m

The run course is based on tarmac paths and grass. Care should be taken when changing surface – particularly if the grass is wet. It is a single lap of 600m.

If your race number “falls off” or is not clearly visible please make sure that you shout out your number as you cross the finish line.

Note: Parents/supporters are not allowed to run around the course with their children. Shouting encouragement for ALL competitors is, however, very welcome.

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Timing The aim of the Triathlon is simply to have a go, enjoy yourself and do your best. You will not be timed. If you do want to know how well you did why not get a parent or friend to time you.

Remember that they will need to be inside the swimming pool to start the clock when you start swimming and at the finish to stop the clock when you cross the line.

Award Ceremony The award ceremony will take place in the Sports Hall as soon as possible after the last competitor has finished. All the competitors who took part will be given a special award as a memento of the event.

Food Food and snacks will be available throughout the morning in the café at the leisure centre. A great way for you to refuel after your effort and for your supporters keep up their energy levels so they can shout louder.

Photographs There will be plenty of chances for your parents and supporters to get some great photographs of you before, during and after the event. All we ask is that anyone that intends taking pictures lets us know at registration where they will be given an official sticker.

And finally, some frequently asked questions...

How Will I Know Where To Go and What To Do? Before the race Read the event information with an adult before the day. This will tell you where you need to be and at what time.

Race day – listening You will be given some more instructions when you register that you have arrived and are ready! You will also need to attend the Event Briefing with everyone who is taking part. An official will tell you all about the event. You will also be able to ask questions. There will also be instructions given by loudspeaker throughout the event. It is important that you listen to these carefully. If in doubt, ask any one of the officials.

Race Day: Looking Have a look around the course and follow the map.

Go and see where the swim will take place, have a look at the bike course and where you will keep your bike, look at the run course and where you will finish.

You might have time to watch others taking part before you. This is a great opportunity to see how the course works.

Can I Bring Some People To Help Me? YES! While you will be the one swimming and cycling and running, it’s a good idea to have people to help you get ready and to look after you afterwards. However, they will NOT be allowed into the Transition Area as this is for competitors and officials only.

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Should I Eat Before My Race? You can’t do well on an empty stomach! So make sure you have a good breakfast at least two hours before your race.

What Is The Best Thing To Drink? WATER! You will be doing three sports in one so will be sweating quite a bit! It is important not to feel too thirsty during your event, so drinking a glass of water before you go to bed the night before, and having a glass of water when you wake up before breakfast are important. Take some bottles of water with you and drink little and often in the 2-3 hours before you race and a big drink afterwards as well!

Do I Need To Do Any Practice Before My Race? As well as practising each of the three disciplines perhaps the most important thing to practice is transition – changing from swimming to cycling (Transition 1 or T1)) and from cycling to running (Transition 2 or T2). This is known as the 4th discipline.

Do I Need Any Special Clothes or Equipment? Apart from your bike and swimming costume or trunks – NO! Your normal trainers and T-shirt will do just fine. What IS important is that you remember to bring some dry and warm clothes to change into afterwards!

If you have any other questions before race day you can contact...

Contents Previous Next Contents Previous Next Appendix 2: Helpful Hints for Responsible Adults

These helpful hints can be used to pass on to the parents/guardians of the children entering your events to ensure they understand your expectations of them during the event.

Triathlon is a solo event – the competitor does the whole thing on their own without any outside help. Stand back and shout “Well Done”, “Keep going!”, “You’re doing very well!” and take pride in kids’ achievements.

Before the Event: Encourage children to practise, train and take advice from qualified coaches.

Get bikes properly checked: • All bikes must have two working brakes. • The tyres should be properly inflated. • The gears should work easily. • The seat should be at the ideal height for the rider. • The handle-bars must not have open ends, fit proper plugs.

Ensure the helmet fits correctly and clips are easily closed and released.

Check all other kit – T-shirt, running shoes, and safety pins (for running number).

Read Race Information very carefully together. Study course maps and directions. Acquaint yourselves with the rules which can be found at www.britishtriathlon.org.

On the Day: Arrive in good time (and park safely in designated area).

It is probably easiest if competitors arrive already wearing their swim suit or trunks under a track suit or similar warm over-clothing.

Unless requested otherwise, register at the event with your child to ensure that they collect all the appropriate competitor accreditation and know which numbers go where etc.

If you intend taking photographs at the event please notify the event staff at registration and check whether there are any restrictions in place.

Look at the course maps with your child and if time/access permits walk around the course with them.

Set the bike in a low gear so it easy to start before your child goes into the Transition Area. This area (only accessible to competitors and officials) is where they change from swim kit to cycling/running.

Listen carefully to Race Briefing. Ask questions if unsure about anything.

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The Race! Remember – marshals are there to help and direct – No other outside assistance whatsoever!

Due to space limitations, spectators are usually not permitted in the pool, so it’s best at this point to move to an area near the bike course.

Things don’t always go perfectly smoothly but be tolerant, ”keep it light” so the children have a fun experience.

Don’t be critical of your child (“you should have done better”) – we want them to enjoy it and try again! Be kind and encouraging to all competitors.

Never openly criticise or argue with officials, marshals or organisers particularly in front of children – if necessary, contact the organiser after the event.

Please remember that the event staff and officials are volunteers. A “Thank You” goes a long way – and is really appreciated when it comes from the competitors.

Consider volunteering to help next time if you’d like to be more involved! You’ll be much appreciated!

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