Since it was first organized in 2009, San Diego has seen 6,500 participants take part in the Triathlon Classic, an annual event that takes in some of the most scenic areas of the city. The race takes place every September, with the start/finish line and transition area at Liberty Station. There are many ways to join in with this notable part of San Diego’s calendar – here’s what you need to know.
There are four ways to get involved, whether you consider yourself a couch potato, or if you’re a local business: volunteering, sponsoring, spectating, and joining the team challenge.
Volunteering
There’s a huge variety of roles you can fill to support the athletes, from helping at the pre-race expo on the Friday, manning aid stations along the route, through to all kinds of post-race activities. Every volunteer gets an official T-shirt and goodie bag, and it’s easy to sign up online.
Sponsoring
If you have a product or service that you want to get some promotion for, the organizers offer a wide range of placement opportunities, from posters, T-shirts, and banners, to race packet inserts and mentions on their website.
Spectating
The triathlon course is cleverly laid out so that athletes return to the same spot in Liberty Station for transitions, giving the audience plenty of chance to see and cheer on the triathletes. Of course, there are plenty of spots along the route, too: along the canal for the swimming leg, the streets of Point Loma for the cycling, and the rest of Liberty Station to cheer the runners.
Team Challenge Whether you’re new to triathlons or want to lower your race time, you can join a twice-weekly training program to help you get over the finish line. Participants in the scheme also raise money for the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America.
There are two levels to race to race in if you’re competing (in the team challenge or otherwise). Both take the same course – a swim in the calm waters of the Bay, a cycle leg through the Naval Base at Point Loma and Cabrillo National Monument, and ending with a run through the beautiful NTC Park at Liberty Station. The difference is the distance: 750m/22k/5k at Sprint distance vs. 1500m/40k/10k at an Olympic distance, with the option of individual or relay. All finishers get a commemorative medal, which doubles as a bottle opener! This triathlon classic tradition will come in handy at the post-race event, where there’s local craft beer.
To register, the website, www.sandiegotriathlonclassic.com/, has a straight-forward process for all competitors. Early registration gets a discount, as does volunteering at the pre-race expo. If you are not a member of USA Triathlon, you can buy a one-day membership at this point ready for the race – pre-race bike checks are available, as well. You’ll need your T-shirt size, as one is included for taking part.
Now you know what you have to do, there’s no excuse for anyone not to take part in San Diego’s iconic triathlon.