ABOUT THE RACE / This is a private friends & family race hosted by Jeff and Lori Cook. The race consists of a 500-meter swim, 11-mile bike and 5k run. This is a challenging course, but you don't need to be a devoted athlete who trains hours and hours each week to do it.
There's a description of each stage and a map of the course below. If you're not up for all three stages, you can enter as a team and do just do one or two of the stages. See the map in Google Maps. here.
A huge part of triathlons is the "transition area" between each stage. Every participant will have a small place to store their bike and gear they'll need for each stage. Arrive early so you can pick a prime spot.
We begin as all triathlons begin — in the water. At the shotgun start, the racers will embark on a 500 meter swim along the shore of Cook's pond for a total stretch of 500 meters. Don't be nervous — you'll be close to shore and lifeguards are stationed in the water.
The swim is doable for even beginning swimmers, but still presents a challenge for all skill levels. They say you can't win the triathlon in the swim, but you can lose it. So strengthen those arms!
Scramble out of the water and to your bike as fast as possible. Put on your shoes, helmet and grab any other gear you need and start pedaling!
The bike is the longest portion of the race and provides the greatest opportunity to make up time lost in the swim or get ahead going into the run. The distance isn't that long for a bike, but having to perform at race pace after the swim can test the mettle of even the most experienced cyclist.
Ride with caution. The cycling portion takes place on country roads which aren't closed for our race, so there will be some light traffic. We have signs posted and race marshals at intersections to help keep an eye out. And remember, no drafting in USAT sanctioned events or you'll receive a time penalty.
Dismount your bike at the archway and run/walk your bike to your station. Take off your helmet and change in to your running shoes and hit the road again. The finish line is only 3.1 miles away.
After you've hauled it through the water and on the bike, now it's time to put your legs to work on the asphalt. The 3.1-mile run (5k) is long enough to test your fitness, but not an impossible distance for even beginners. Like the bike stage, the run takes place on country roads so there may be some light traffic.
While you run, you'll be tired. You might even be in a little pain. Pace yourself, walk if you need to. We'll have water set up at the halfway point. Stay focused on the goal — As you turn onto Cook's driveway, you'll see the finish line arch and hear the cheers of your friends and family all around. Achieving your goal and crossing that finish line is a fantastic feeling.
You made it! Whether you were the first or the last — or even finish — you are a winner because you showed up and gave it your best. Now let's eat.
