With everything going on lately, a certain race has definitely crept up on me. And I’m not talking about the Chicago marathon either. Tomorrow is my very first triathlon!! Marcus and I grabbed our race packets last night to avoid the big crowds tonight and tomorrow morning.
We presented our id’s and signed our lives away on the waiver. Then it was on to the next stop, our chips.
The race volunteer briefed us about where we put the strap, which goes on our left leg so it doesn’t get messed in with the bike gears. I’m glad she mentioned it, because I would have never even thought of it! After getting our chips, we had to get our swim caps.
For my age and gender, I was instructed to get a blue cap. Females ages 20-29 are all in the same swim wave, so our matching blue caps will ensure everyone is in the correct spot.
Last but not least, we grabbed our race numbers and additional information. There is a whole lot more that goes into a triathlon packet, compared to a standard running road race packet!
The number for the run, the bike, and the helmet, along with the swim cap, are all mandatory for the race! Now all I need is to get my body all marked up with my number on race morning, and ill be ready to race!
We have a wedding to go to tonight, so it is not exactly my standard pre-race ritual. I am drinking water like crazy, and eating well, so I have that part on lock. Now I just need to set out all of my clothes tonight, and I’ll be ready to go! I still can’t believe the triathlon is already here! Nerves are setting in! Wish me luck!
Chicago Marathon Start
I received an email last night highlighting the new protocol for the start of Chicago. In the past, they have had one start with multiple corrals. This year, they decided to make it more efficient by having 2 starts, with multiple corrals within those starts. I think it is a pretty awesome idea, and should really help to alleviate some of the congestion both at the start, and on the course. I’ll be in Wave 2, Corral C. Anyone else in that starting position too? Look up your corral if you aren’t sure! Here are all of the details, straight from the source!
Best wishes on your first tri! I know you will do GREAT though! Have so much fun and I can’t wait to hear all about it.
Thank you Tina! I always love your support!
Good luck on your first Tri!
They did the 2 wave start at this year’s Shamrock Shuffle (the other HUGE Bank of America sponsored race in Chicago) and it really helped to relieve race congestion at the start. They also lined up the corrals on the side roads leading up to Columbus so even the corrals weren’t crowded.
Excited for you to get to experience the Chicago Marathon!
Thanks Whitney! I’m excited for all of it!!
Good luck tomorrow!!!! So exciting! I just ran my first half marathon this past weekend and man…the nerves were crazy the day/night before. However, once I was there and waiting I was ready and comfortable. Firsts are amazing!!!
This is my first “first” in a really long time, so I can not wait!
Good luck tomorrow! I did my first triathlon this past weekend and I was crazy nervous but it turned out a million times better than I expected. Have fun!
Well then I hope the same thing happens to me!!
Good luck at your triathlon! Do triathlons always have color coordinated swim caps by age group? (I’m not a triathlete so I don’t know about these things.) Sounds like you’ve been doing a great job of preparing yourself for this race so I’m sure you’ll do really well.
I am in Corral D for the Chicago Marathon. I’m getting excited!
Yep, they do! It’s an easy way to pick people out
Soo excited for Chicago!
Good luck tomorrow, Mary! You will do great
My first tri is in less than three weeks, so I’m excited to hear about your experience!
Thanks Carrie! I’m excited!!
Good luck tomorrow! You guys are going to do great!
Thanks! I am totally taking your advice on the ponytail, BTW!! I definitely don’t want to have to bike with it down!
Good luck tomorrow!!! How exciting! Top Gun is a great race! Enjoy every second!!!
-Steph
Good Luck Mary and Marcus,
Sorry we can’t be there to cheer you on. All the best.
Mom and Dad Baum
Good luck!!!