Q
What is a Triathlon?
A
A Triathlon is defined in British Triathlon’s constitution as “an event combining any combination of swimming, cycling and running”. A conventional triathlon is made up of a swim followed by a cycle ride followed by a run. Triathlon is an individual activity and races take place against a continuously running clock.
Q
What is an Aquathlon?
A
An aquathlon is the third variation of a multi-sport event that you will now commonly see. This is made up of a swim/run combination and as with the other two types of event, the activity takes place against a continuously running clock.
Q
What is a Duathlon?
A
A Duathlon is an event combining the cycle and run elements of triathlon. Again, activity takes place against a continuously running clock. Events are usually organised as run/cycle/run races, the second run often shorter than the first.
Q
What is an Aquabike?
A
An aquabike is another variation of a multi-sport event that you will now commonly see. This is made up of a swim/bike combination and as with the other types of event, the activity takes place against a continuously running clock.
Q
What do I need to bring?
A
When you search for any GO TRI activity, you will be given a list of kit required to take part, but for most cases you will need wear clothing where you feel comfortable to move around and sensible footwear that you can jog in.
Q
Do I need a bike for GO TRI?
A
In some GO TRI Events and Activity bikes are required – this is specified when you sign up. If you decide to take part in an event that needs a bike, consider hiring or borrowing a bike, but make sure that it is roadworthy and that you also have a helmet, otherwise you won’t be allowed to participate.
Q
I can only swim a few lengths; can I take part?
A
Yes absolutely! Give it a go, most people simply need to swim on a regular basis to increase the distance. It is also fine to swim breaststroke and you don’t need to put your head in the water. You may need some improvement sessions with a swim coach, but the instructor will help with a referral.
Q
Will I be taught how to swim or ride a bike?
A
Unfortunately, we can’t offer this level of instruction. However, part of the GO TRI Activity is how to help new participants to get started - you will only need the fundamentals to get started, you don’t need to be an expert!
Q
My children would like to give GO TRI a go, can they?
A
Absolutely - we have GO TRI Events for children and families – just visit the GO TRI Activity search and select Children from the Competitor Type filter. You can find out how to register your child's account below.
Q
I want to create an account for my child but they don't have their own email address - can I link their account to mine?
A
Absolutely! You can link your child's account to your account by using the same email address and password when registering your child. Please note: Linked accounts can be created for children up to the age of 16.
Q
How do I link my child's account to mine?
A
If your child already has a GO TRI account assigned to a different email address to yours, you can make a small change which will link your accounts. Log in to your child's account and click on 'My Details' on their Dashboard. Simply, change their email address to match yours and click update. You will then be asked for the password you use for the parent account. Insert the password and press submit - the accounts will then link automatically.
Q
I have linked my children's accounts to mine - how do I switch between the accounts?
A
If you are logged into the 'parent' account, click on 'Manage Linked Accounts' on your dashboard and select one of your linked accounts. Please note: Once you are on your children's account, you must log out and back in again to re-access the parent (or other linked accounts). This is a security setting.
Q
Can I enter the event on the day?
A
Yes, sometimes GO TRI organisers accept on the day entries – it is best to contact the organiser beforehand to check this.
Q
Can I walk during the run element of a GO TRI?
A
Of course, this is your event, you can do it at any speed you want.
Q
What sort of bike can I use?
A
The one that fits you best. However, your bike must have two freewheels (not “fixie”) and two brakes. Please make sure it is roadworthy – if in doubt get it serviced at your local bike shop.
Q
How can I find out about longer distance triathlon events, now that I have done some GO TRI events?
A
Visit www.britishtriathlon.org/events and search for your local event.
Q
How can I volunteer at a GO TRI event?
A
Contact the GO TRI organiser at the event you wish to volunteer at, we’re sure they’ll be delighted to hear from you.
Q
How much activity should I do before I take part in a GO TRI event?
A
This will depend on the person, and what you have done before, e.g. if you have done a Race for Life and like to swim every week, then you should be fine to book on your first GO TRI event. We would recommend that you have been active for a couple of weeks and completed the full GO TRI event distance separately in training.
Q
How old do I need to be in order to do GO TRI events?
A
You must be 8 years old by the 31st December of this year. If you are aged between 8 & 18 parental consent is required. Up to the age of 14, GO TRI events take place on courses free from traffic.
Q
How will I know where to go when I have signed up to a GO TRI Event?
A
Every GO TRI Event has clear information that can be located in your personal Dashboard – you can view your booking and event details. Most GO TRI organisers also send out pre-event information to you via email or post it on their website, so look out for this to. If you have any questions, you can also contact your GO TRI organiser to ask them anything that will help you feel confident.
Q
I don’t have a helmet, can I still race?
A
No, if you are using your bike at any point during GO TRI activity, you must wear a helmet. No helmet, no GO TRI Activity
Q
I don’t want to do a GO TRI Event; can I just do the other element of GO TRI?
A
Yes, the DIY Tri, GO TRI Gym Challenge or GO TRI Activity sessions are a fantastic way to get in shape and workout! If there is a local event, you can also go along as supporter or volunteer to be a marshal.
Q
I have signed up to an OW triathlon, but I don’t have a wetsuit, will there be one available at the event?
A
For open water GO TRI events in the UK we recommend that you wear a wetsuit, these are available now at many online stores – just search for triathlon wetsuit online. In most cases GO TRI are unable to supply wetsuits, however if these are available due to a project or support it will be specified.
Q
I’m a bit nervous about GO TRI - won’t there be lots expert athletes in all the gear?
A
GO TRI is all about new people to triathlon, everything is designed to be motivating and friendly to beginners. They will be challenging, but not off putting. You may get the odd club member joining in, but the session is about you and not them.
Q
I’m not sure if I am fit enough to take part in the training?
A
Everyone needs to start somewhere, and we want everyone to feel that GO TRI is for them! So just sign up and have a go. If you have any medical concerns, you should discuss with your doctor and make the GO TRI organiser is aware when starting any session.
Q
Is there a limit on how many times I can attend a GO TRI event?
A
No, we want you to participate as many times as you would like.
Q
What is the typical cost of GO TRI Activity?
A
The majority GO TRI Activity costs between £5.00 and £15.00. There may be exceptions to this rule where GO TRI delivery costs are higher and therefore the entry fee will increase, however, rest assured this is something that the GO TRI team monitor.
Q
What will I be doing in GO TRI Activities?
A
You will have a qualified coach supporting you in a range of activities with a triathlon theme. The aim being to motivate and build confidence to take part in an activity – it might be studio cycling; gym-based sessions- treadmills and static bikes, conditioning sessions – triathlon specific circuits; combination ‘brick’ sessions – bike and run; swim sessions – motivation and confidence building; indoor triathlons: swim, bike and run or open water swimming – whatever you have chosen.
Q
Do I need to be a Triathlon England member in order to do a GO TRI event?
A
No, not at all.
