Do I have to signup online to register for events?
We would prefer … Yes, we are moving to green standards and removing paper waste is one of our main goals for 2012.
Does my chip need to be returned to the timing tent post event?
For RUNNING & CYCLING EVENTS … NO. Your chips are located on the back of your bib and are disposable.
For TRIATHLON EVENTS … YES! If you sneaked past our volunteers at the event of the finish chute with your chip, please return it to the timing tent post event. If you take it home with you, please send it back to:
Chasing 3 Race Productions – 3 Metate Drive – Sandia Park – NM – 87047We don’t want to charge you … but the chips are expensive and we will invoice you for $20 to replace the un-returned chip.
When do I pickup my timing chip?
Your timing chip will be picked up the morning of the race. If you don’t pickup a chip, your time will not be recorded.
REFUNDS …
Please go to the Event Refunds page.
Why do I have to pay the ONLINE REGISTRATION fee on my registration?
The fee pays for all charges associated with processing your credit card.
Do I have to be a USAT member to participate in USAT sanctioned races?
Yes, you must have either an annual membership or 1-day license:
Why do I race aged up in triathlons?
USAT bases age on December 31, so you compete in the same age group throughout the year.
Example: Jane Doe is 39 during the entire 2012 racing season, but turns 40 on Dec. 15th, 2012. Jane will then compete in the 40-44 age group for the entire 2012 season for all events.
What time do I need to arrive for an event?
We arrive hours, if not days, prior to an event to set up … with that stated – come early and take your time. Parking, finding your rack assignment, body marking, warming up and late packet pickup take a fair amount of time on race morning. We suggest for an 7:00 am race you arrive at least 1 ½ hours to 2 hours early.
Do I have to pickup my bib and race packet the day before the race?
No … BUT it does relieve a lot of stress in the am. Picking up the day before allows you time to place your bib on your bike, arrange your race bag, plan your transition setup and prep your race. Our packet pickups are most often close to the event site, so you have a chance to see the race layout.
Are you REQUIRED to wear a wetsuit?
No, but if the water temperature is under 70 we highly recommend a wetsuit. USAT rules state:
“Each age group participant shall be permitted to wear a wet suit without penalty in any event sanctioned by USA Triathlon up to and including a water temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water temperature is greater than 78 degrees, but less than 84 degrees Fahrenheit, age group participants may wear a wet suit at their own discretion, provided however that participants who wear a wet suit within this temperature range shall not beeligible for prizes or awards. Age group participants shall not wear wet suits in water temperatures equal to or greater than 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The wetsuit policy for elite athletes shall be determined by the USAT Athletes Advisory Council.”
Are swim caps provided at swimming races?
For open water races … YES. Each participant is given a swim cap with the color of their assigned wave.
May I pick up my packet without a Photo ID or pickup my friend’s packet?
Per USA Triathlon rules, you MUST have current photo ID at packet pickup. You MUST pick up your packet in person. You may not have someone else pick up your packet for you. NO PHOTO ID, NO RACE, period. If you are an annual USA Triathlon member, you MUST show your current USAT membership card. If you fail to bring it, you will be required to pay the $10 single day membership fee. If you cannot pay the $10 fee, you will not race. NO EXCEPTIONS. (We will not be able to accept credit cards at packet pickup). If you stated “pending” for your USAT membership number, you MUST have proof of membership by printing out a temporary membership card on http://www.usatriathlon.org. If you do not have this, you MUST pay the $10 fee.
Again: You MAY NOT pick up a packet/timing chip for another person. In order to be covered by USAT insurance you MUST follow these guidelines. You must pick up your own packet, no exceptions.
What happens if it lightnings or a big storm comes in before the race begins?
Inclement Weather/Alternate Plans
In case of inclement weather or the need for alternate planning, the race directors reserve the right to modify or cancel any portion of the triathlon if weather conditions, water quality or any other unsafe condition may compromise athlete safety.
If your question is not answered here please submit a question to angie@chasing3.com.