White Oak

Tri Squad

This section is just for junior triathletes and parents. It aims to answer all your questions about the sport of triathlon, and to introduce you to a GREAT sport!

If you have a question that isn't answered here why not come along a talk to some of our members.

What is a triathlon?

Triathlon is a sport made up of three sports - swimming, cycling and running. Most triathlons start with a swim, then a bike ride, and finish with a run. They are a nonstop race and the transitions from swim to bike and bike to run are important parts of the race. Triathlon is one of the world's fastest growing sports. Over 1 million people around the world do triathlon. Lots of juniors like you are giving it a go and then taking it up as their regular sport. Here's some of the reasons why!

Triathlon is for everyone
Triathlon keeps you fit and healthy
Beacause the training cover all three sports injuries are rare
There are lots of junior triathlons all over the country
It's great to meet new friends outside of school
You can participate in triathlon all year round
It's great fun

Do I need special equipment?

No, you've probably got all you need at home! All you'll need is:

Swimsuit
Goggles
Swim Cap - sometimes provided as part of the race entry
Towel - to dry off after the swim
T-shirt - for the bike and run
Bike Helmet - (there should be a sticker inside it saying that it meets the British Saftey Standards)
Water Bottle
Bike - in good working order (can be a road, mountain or BMX bike)
Running Shoes - elastic laces are an idea for ease of putting on shoes
Socks (optional)
Sunscreen
Bike Pump
Warm Clothing - for after the race

We recommend athletes join the British Triathlon Association as there are many benefits in doing so, but most races allow you to purchase a "one race membership" on the day if you wish.

All the courses are well-marked, so you can't get lost. And there are always lots of helpers looking out for athletes who might need a hand.

If Mum or Dad want to get involved, they can help out in lots of different ways. They can pour drinks, mark the course or supervise the bike area. Helpful parents make triathlon events possible.

What happens in winter?

It can get pretty cold in the winter. But there's no sitting around inside for us triathletes! Instead, we do duathlons! Duathlons are just like triathlons, except without the swim. Instead of a swim, you do an extra run. So most duathlons start with a run, then a bike ride, and finish with another run. Most winter days are nice and sunny, so it's great to get outside and take part in the Winter Duathlon Series!

Races

We advise athletes to enter as many races as possible: they are the best form of training you can get. You can enter by downloading forms from this site and mailing or faxing them to the Entry secretary. Check on our Races To Do page to see which races are coming up for juniors. Ask Mum or Dad to help fill out the entry forms and to sign them. Always let the webmaster know which races you plan to do so that he can publish the results.

On race day, have a small breakfast so your tummy is not too full. That way you won't get a cramp in the swim or feel yukky when you're running. Get your gear together and make sure your bike has enough air in the tyres and your helmet fits firmly. Ask Mum or Dad to drive you to the race site nice and early so that you can get prepared.

When you get there, find Registration, register, and then take your bike, helmet and running shoes to the transition area. You can lay them out here so that they are ready to use when you finish the swim. Have a look at the map of the course, which is normally included in your race deatils or displayed for you at Registration. Listen out for the 'race briefing', which is someone on a microphone who talks you through the course to be followed and what to do next.

After the race, have something to eat and drink. Walk around until you cool down, making sure you keep warm at the same time. Once you've looked after yourself you can cheer on your friends.Full results from each race are posted to this website a few days afterwards, so you can keep track of your improvement through the season.

Triathlon is all about having fun and giving it a go, so the main thing to remember is to enjoy yourself!

Diet
The most important thing when training and racing is to drink lots of water. Carrying a drink bottle with you everywhere will help remind you to drink up!

Breakfast is the most important meal of the day so don't skip it! Try cereal, toast and fruit, or a fruit and yoghurt smoothie for a real energy boost. Eating healthily is important for everyone, not just triathletes! Tell Mum and Dad that you're 'in training', and see if they can help you to be extra healthy!

Parents/Guardians

Before the race

Encourage your child to compete in events that are within their ability. Note the distances of each leg (swim, cycle and run) and practice these before the race. If your child is doing a race for the first time ensure he/she knows the course and the number of legthsto swim and laps to cycle and run. Make sure your child has a good nights sleep before the race. Get to the race well before start time to register and help organise the race gear.

Remind your child that this is about having fun! Make sure your child is hydrated before the race, has a hat and wears sunscreen.
Encourage your child to so some stretching and warm-up before the race. Remind your child (and yourself) that the Marshals are there for safety and should be listened to at all times - never argue with the Marshals.
Make sure your child's helmet fits securely and your child can do up and undo the strap easily. Check your child's bike setup. Tyres should be correctly inflated. Recommended inflation levels can be found on the sidewalls of tyres. Carry a pump and a basic tool kit. If your child's bike has gears, choose a suitable gear for jumping onto the bike. Have your child practice taking the bike off the rack and putting it on again.
Vacate the Transition Area once it is closed and wait until the Race Commentator announces its re-opening before you re-enter. Marshals in the Transition Area will assist your childduring the race.
Help others - you and your children can make some good friends.
Be an encouraging supporter - children love to hear their name called when racing. Make sure you stay clear of the course!

REMEMBER FUN, SAFETY AND FAIRNESS ARE THE
KEY ELEMENTS OF JUNOR TRIATHLONS!