Are you a first-time NYC Triathlete? Maybe this is your first race ever! We've got you covered. Take a look below, and we bet we've got answers for all of your questions.

How far is the New York City Triathlon?

The NYC Triathlon is an Olympic distance race – 1500 meter swim in the Hudson (.9 mile), 40 kilometer bike on the Westside Highway (24.8 miles), and a 10k run across 72^nd Street finishing in Central Park (6.2 miles).

How difficult is the Swim?

Although times vary with wave number and skill level, the swim in the Hudson River is one of the triathlon world's fastest. It is an open water swim, so it is recommended you have experience with such before the race.

Can anyone enter?

Anyone 18 and older can participate. The race includes 30 professionals, 150 fast amateurs, and 3,000 age groupers. The average finishing time is three to four hours. You'll be done in time for lunch--maybe even brunch!

When does 2012 online registration open and close?

As a response to the high demand, the New York City Triathlon switched to a six day lottery for 2012 entry.  The lottery will open on November 1, 2011 at 12:01 am EST and will close on November 6, 2011 at 11:59 pm EST.  More details here.

How much is the 2012 entry fee?

Click here for the 2012 Entry Fees.

How do I register?

Go online to www.nyctri.com and sign up between November 1, 2011 and November 6, 2011. For regular updates and entry reminders join our mailing list or become our fan on Facebook.

How do I know if I’m in?

All applicants will be notified via e-mail no later than 6:00 pm EST November 11 as to whether or not he or she received an entry through the lottery.

Do I have to pre-qualify?

No, anyone 18 and older can enter. Fast, slow, beginner, stud – anyone.

Can I enter if I’ve never done a triathlon?

Sure, everyone has to start someplace. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere!

How do I qualify as an Elite Amateur?

You’ll have to provide a link to the results of an Olympic distance race you’ve completed in the previous 12 months with a time under 2:15 for men and 2:30 for women. Entry is limited to the first 75 men and the first 75 women to enter. Just select the “Elite” category when you register.

What if I enter and I can’t compete?

Unfortunately there are no refunds once you complete your registration. However, you can defer to the following year and receive a guaranteed entry! Details here.

Do I have to be a member of USA Triathlon?

No, but you’ll save money on a one-day insurance fee if you are a member. And you get a cool magazine and a decoder ring! Become a USAT member here.

Do I have to live in New York?

No, the New York City Triathlon had entrants from 50 countries and 49 states. Are there no triathletes in West Virginia? Check out the NYC Tri Travel section for more information about hotel deals and what to do when you're in NYC.

Evidently I ask questions more frequently than the next guy. I still have some!

Technically that's not a question, but it's no problem, just email us.