Are you a first-time NYC Triathlete? Maybe this is your first race ever! We've got you covered. Take a look below, we bet we've got answers for all of your questions.
How far is the Nautica New York City Triathlon?
The Nautica 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 72nd 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's fastest. A bag of Cheetos did 21 minutes.
Can anyone enter?
Yes. The race includes 30 professionals, 150 fast amateurs, and 3,000 regulars Joe’s just like you. The average finishing time is 3:00 to 4:00 hours. Easy breezy.
When does online registration open?
November 1, 2008 – 12:01 am. You’ll find a link on the NYCTri.com homepage once registration is open.
How much does it cost to enter?
$225 for an individual, $250 for a relay team, and $500 for the Champions Club.
When does registration close?
Who knows? Last year the race sold out in about 8 hours. This year it could be slower or it could be faster. Champions Club slots sold out November 20th. You snooze, you lose.
How do I register?
Just go online to www.nyctri.com and sign up. Put on a pot of coffee and watch Letterman. Or, set your alarm and wake up early. Memorize your credit card number. For faster registration, you can create an Active.com account beforehand. It’s free, why not!
How do I know if I’m in?
You’ll get an immediate e-mail confirmation from Active.com as soon as you register. Make sure to check your spam filter. Make sure to print this email, as it'll get you a complimentary one-week membership at Reebok Sports Club/NY - West Side location.
Do I have to pre-qualify?
No, anyone 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. However, you can defer to 2010, details here.
Do I have to be a member of USA Triathlon?
No, but you’ll save money on one-day insurance fees if you are a member. And you get a cool magazine and a decoder ring! Become a USAT member here.
I’m part of a relay, can I enter my teammates?
Yes, only one person needs to get up at midnight to enter the entire team but make sure you have all of their info (name, age, sex, e-mail, t-shirt size, USAT number).
Do I have to live in New York?
No, the 2008 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.