Preparing to race can be overwhelming to parents and athletes. The following checklists provide the equipment and attire expectations for every practice and race day.
Our gear is carried in our team bag.
Swim Practice
- sneakers for warm-up and conditioning
- swim suit or tri kit
- swim cap (OtterTriTeam cap)
- goggles
- fins (long fins)
- towel
- water
- healthy snack for after practice
- yoga mat (also for run)
Bike Practice
- helmet
- bike
- cycling shorts or tri shorts
- t-shirt
- bike gloves
- sneakers
- cycling shoes if applicable
- water
- healthy snack for after practice
Run Practice
- running shoes
- running shorts and a tshirt
- water
- healthy snack for after practice
- yoga mat (also for swim)
- headlamp or chest lamp/reflectors
Additional Items for Competitive and High School Teams
Swim Practice
- wetsuit
Bike Practice
- ‘dumb’ trainer
- bike lights
Run Practice
- headlamp or chest-lamp/reflectors
Remote Practices
- 4-pound medicine ball
- mini-band
- swim bands
- trainer
Most of our practices encompass two race disciplines. All have a warm-up and strength component. As a result transition is practiced almost every session. Your Otter needs not only the tools to practice, but also the fuel to do so. He/She should eat at least an hour before practice. It can be as simple as a piece of fruit, like a banana, or celery and hummus or peanut butter.
Race Day:
Your Otter is now racing. Parents you are the cheerleader. Your Otter will be fine. If a mistake is made, let your Otter learn from it. Remember, you are not permitted in transition. It is sacred ground only for athletes. If you are stressed, you are stressing your Otter and probably the Coach. It is a full morning. Allow the fun!
Race Day Must Haves:
- tri kit (what we race in)
- helmet
- bike
- goggles
- sneakers
- racebelt (attach number)
- water bottle (leave in transition)
- towel (to dry feet)
- race packet (put numbers on night before)
- breakfast, healthy snack
Race Day Extras (still important)
- sunscreen
- baby powder for shoes (do not allow your Otter to sprinkle in shoes
- flip-flops to wear after putting gear in transition
- t-shirt or hoodie
- towel
- flashlight (sometimes it is dark race morning)
- a sharpie (should race number/body stickers fail)
- sidewalk chalk (to identify the area in transition)
- a chair