One week out from the Luray International Triathlon. Let’s start here: my training has not been up to my usual standard of consistency or performance. At this point though, not much I can do except ready myself mentally, try to go through a strong pre-race-week routine (hydrate! stretch! don’t overeat!) and hope for the best. I’ve settled on switching my category at the packet pickup from the “age group” to the “novice” segment, which seems okay for my first time in a non-running race.
I won’t lie though, my anxiety level is higher than it has been for any race I’ve done since my first marathon. There’s just so much more ‘stuff’ needed for a triathlon. It’s all a bit overwhelming. We’re camping the night before, so I also need to think through my packing list for the race. Here’s my list (culled from other websites aimed at newbies). I’ve marked with an asterisk things that I would normally take for a running race.
Pre-RUN GEAR LIST
- Sweatshirt*
- Water bottle*
- Liquid Bandaid* (pre-race nipple treatment)
- Baby Powder
- Glide*
- Vitamins*
- Breakfast (granola bar or something)*
- Participants Guide Printed Out
- Race numbers, timing chip, etc. (provided in packet)
- Floor Pump
Swim Leg
- Goggles
- Cap (provided in packet)
- Towel
- Water tray for feet
- [I’m going without a wetsuit]
Bike Leg
- Bike
- Helmet
- Gloves
- Water Bottle (with gatorade or something in it)
- Spare tube/levers
- CO2 Cannister/pump
- Glasses*
- Running Shoes** (I don’t yet use clipless pedals…watch be blow up the second transition!)
- Socks** (make sure there’s two!)
**Note THAT these things would normally ALREADY be on my body for most running races, so I wouldn’t have to worry about them.
Run Leg
- Belt (for number)*
- Cap*
- Gels*