Race Info

Swim Waves

Racers start the swim in waves, groups of approximately 50 swimmers. Expect three minutes between waves. You will have a choice when you register.

Age Group Waves These are the regular waves and are typically organized according to age, e.g. 30-34 wave. Some waves will have mixed age groups depending on the number of swimmers in age group.

Elite Wave This wave is reserved for athletes who expect to finish in the top 30. Minnesota has some amazing female triathletes!

Buddy Wave If you want to start the race with a friend or family member, sign up for the Buddy Wave. The Buddy Wave will be the last wave, and Buddy Wave participants will not be eligible for overall or age group awards (but will receive the Finisher award!). We will also assign you adjacent transition area spots. You must indicate your interest in the Buddy Wave during registration or by contacting triathlon@ywcampls.org by August 1.

Novice Swimmer Cap

If you are a novice swimmer and would like to make it easier for lifeguards to pick you out, please check the box on the registration form to receive a swim cap of a special color. Please remember, however, that a swim cap is no substitute for practicing your swimming, including open water.

Noodle Swimmers

You will know this group of special volunteers by their orange caps and big foam floating noodles. They are there to offer encouragement and a chance to rest on a noodle if a swimmer needs it. Resting on a noodle or lifeguard kayak or board will not disqualify you as long as they are not providing you forward progress. If you are a novice swimmer, do your training! Take advantage of swim classes and masters coaching. But rest assured that you will have great support through the swim thanks to the Noodle Swimmers! Please note that the Noodle Swimmers are NOT lifeguards. Trained lifeguards will also be stationed along the entire swim course.

Transition Area

The transition area is where your bike and other race gear is kept during the race. Please note that only competitors and race officials are allowed in the transition area. In addition, after finishing the race, NO competitors will be allowed back in the transition area until the final competitor has exited the transition area for the run portion of their race. This is to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants. If you are waiting, avail yourself of the food and beverages, free massage, the view, the camaraderie of other finishers, and CHEER on those that are still in action!

Transition Area Pit Crew

Have a flat tire right before the race? Need help zipping your wetsuit? Not sure how to rack your bike? How to put on the bike number? Where the bike goes out? Our Transition Area Pit Crew will be there to help and answer questions.

Wetsuit Purchase and Rental

For an extra degree of warmth and buoyancy during the swim, consider using a wetsuit. If you're not ready to buy one, try renting one for a training swim or for the event itself. You can buy or rent your wetsuit at Gear West Bike & Triathlon. (Rentals are $40 and are first come-first serve. You can keep it from Wednesday through the following Tuesday.)

Food & Water

Aid stations will be available at both the beginning (outside the transition area) and middle of the run. In addition, ample food and beverages will be available for post-race recovery.

Rules

The YWCA of Minneapolis Women's Triathlon complies with USA Triathlon rules. USA Triathlon has provided the following pdf file of the most commonly violated rules and penalties.

 »USAT Most Commonly Violated Rules and Penalties (PDF File)