In this first of a two part series on transitions, we’ll
take a closer look at how best to prepare for the first transition, also known
as T1– the swim to bike. Every
triathlete has a different ‘system’ that they’ve adopted out of trial and error
that works best for them and as you complete more triathlons, you’ll discover a
specific order in which you prefer to make your transition. Even though I’ll include my own
opinions, the point of this post is not to provide an order of operations for
T1, but to provide awareness of all the necessary tasks required for you to get
on your bike.
Pre-race Preparation
As soon as you arrive at the triathlon, you need to check in
then rack your bike. At higher
profile events its common to check in and rack your bike the night before, but
at most sprints and Olympic distance races, this isn’t necessary. It’s good to get there early for two
reasons; first, the racks usually are perpendicular to the entry and exit
points of the transition zone so the closest spots go to the earliest
arrivers. If you’re concerned
about your time, you could waste precious seconds running down the isle to your
bike. And second, by getting there
before everyone else, you’re guaranteed room on the ground for all your transition
gear. You’ll notice that many
people like to lay claim to a very generous amount of ground space but don’t be
afraid to crowd them, ask them to give you some space, or flat out move their
stuff over. You paid the same
entrance fee as them so you’re entitled to the same amount of transition room.
(More after the break)
