FAQ

See the course info page for answers to all of the basic questions about the event (who, what, where, when, how, why, etc.).

Below you’ll find a collection of tips to help you as a participant, spectator, volunteer, or parent. Participants are strongly encouraged to read through the FAQ! If you have other questions not answered here or on the home page, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us!

Registration Questions

Question: When does online registration close?

Online registration closes on Wednesday evening before race day at 11:59pm PDT. If you missed it, see next question!

Question: Will there be race-day registration?

No race registration will be available. Your best bet is to register online today! If you missed signing up online — and the event hasn’t yet sold out — you can register in-person at packet pickup on the Saturday before the race (see next FAQ item), but a limited number of slots will be available and heat assignments will be limited based on available space. The earlier heats fill up first, so sign up early to get a spot in the earlier heats. Don’t delay registering too long or the event could sell out as it did in 2024 when it sold out in early September. Register early to secure your spot in the event and avoid being waitlisted!

Questions: When will I get my registration materials? Is there a packet pickup? Do I need to sign a physical waiver? 

Registration packets can be picked up on Saturday the day before race day at Roadrunner Sports in Berkeley between 1-4pm. This is strongly recommended as it will ease congestion at the registration table on race day. Bring a photo ID. You can pick up packets for friends, family, or relay team members. Bring some form of ID for the people for whom you are picking up packets, if they don’t share you surname (example: photo of driver’s license or copy of their race registration email).

Race day packet pickup will be available for pre-registered athletes at the registration table at the venue starting at 6:45am.

Waivers: Team members (or their parental guardians) will be asked to sign a physical waiver, which will be available at packet pickup on Saturday as well as on Sunday. If you need race-day packet pick up, proceed to the waiver signing table to do that before going to the registration table. Non-team participants and team captains that signed up online do NOT need to sign a waiver as they (or their parent/guardian) signed it electronically during online registration.

Timing chips will be distributed at packet pickup on Saturday or on race day for those who didn’t attend packet pickup. Please confirm the chip is in your packet. YOU are responsible for bringing it with you on race day morning. Keep it with all your racing gear so you don’t forget to bring it. Otherwise, you will not be timed or listed in the results. The timing chip is expensive. You will be charged $60.00 if the chip is not returned. If you do not plan on participating but want to pick up your swag bag on Saturday, please remove the chip from the packet and give to a race organizer. Thanks!

Question: How can I verify whether or not I signed up already this year?

To confirm your registration, visit the “Find a Participant” tab on our RunSignUp.com registration website. You can also get to our main RunSignUp page from our registration page. Log into RunSignUp using the same email you used for registration.

If you have NOT yet registered this year but would like to participate, there will be some slots available at the in-person packet pickup on Saturday before the race. Get there early to ensure an entry!

Question:  For YOUTH relay team registration, can I register kids who are not my own?

The registering parent of a youth team must get permission from a parent or guardian of each of the other youth team members who are not their own children.

Then on the registration web form when you select, “You are this person’s parent or legal guardian,” you are doing so on behalf of each child’s parent/guardian.

On the initial registration page that lists all the participants for the team you are registering, unselect yourself as a registrant and be sure all the kids on the team are selected as registrants.

Swim Questions

Question: How should we enter and exit the Aquatic Center to access the pool?

Everyone must enter the pool through the front doors of the Aquatic Center — NOT through the gate by the basketball court. The front doors are located near the “INFO” diamond on the course map. Proceed to the outdoor pool by walking through the main Aquatic Center hallway. The indoor pool can be used for warming up. Note that the indoor pool is about 85ºF compared to the outdoor pool’s 80ºF. There may not be an announcer in the indoor pool announcing upcoming heats, so pay attention to the time.

All lanes of the outdoor pool are designated for competition, and there are no lane assignments. Get to the outdoor pool at least 5 minutes before your heat is scheduled to start to scope out a lane — perhaps next to a friend, family, or team member! Enter the pool on the western deck (by the diving boards, but no diving off the board!). You are free to warm up in the outdoor pool before your heat starts in any open lane after the swimmer from the previous heat exits the pool.

All swimmers will start in the water, with at least one hand on the west wall of the pool. Listen to instructions from the pool announcer who will have everyone hold up on the west wall when there is about 1 minute till the heat starting time. The announcer will give you a count down and send everyone off at the same time. Start swimming when you hear the “GO!” or the starting buzzer.

Upon completing the swim, athletes will exit the pool at the west deck (opposite end from the starting side), then walk or jog up either the left or right side ramp through the gate leading to the basketball court area. There will be a timing mat just outside the gate over which you must cross in order for your swim time to be recorded. Follow the signs and cones leading you to the transition area. You may walk, jog, or run safely as you see fit. Distance to the transition area entrance from the pool: approx. 75 yards.

Do not enter the pool from the outer gate by the basketball court because it will mess up your chip timing data!

Question: What if I can’t finish the swim in the time allotted for each swim heat?

There’s no penalty for not completing the swim distance due to insufficient time. If you haven’t completed the swim within the allotted time, you’ll simply be asked to exit the pool and proceed to your bike. A volunteer will tap you at the east wall of the pool to let you know it’s time to exit.

Since we need time to prep the pool for the next heat, short course athletes will have about 8 minutes to swim while main course athletes will have about 13 minutes to swim. The vast majority of people will complete the swim within these times.

Question: Will someone be there to count my swim laps?

We hope to have adequate volunteers to provide lap counting for each swimmer in the main course, but there are no guarantees. Therefore, be prepared to count your own laps. You’ll see the numbered lap counter poles at the east end of your lane indicating lap 1, 3, 5, 7, etc. When the counter shows red (see example in that link), that means you have 2 lengths to go (50 yds – down & back). Gun it!

The swim is 17 lengths (25 yds) of the pool, or 8.5 down-and-backs (50 yds) for a total of 425 yds (approx. 400m). If there is no lane counter and you need to keep track of your swim laps, here are some tips:

  • Break up the swim into 100 yard increments.
  • Every 4th length, think “100”, “200”, “300”, “400”.
  • Do something special every 4th length such as sight on the diving board to simulate an open water swim, build your pace, or switch your swim stroke.
  • There is a digital clock mounted on the south wall of the pool deck. Note the clock time when your heat starts and then estimate the clock time at your half-way point (~200 yds) and finish.
    • To do this, you’ll need to know your expected time per 50 or 100 yds.

Question: Are we allowed to bring anything into the pool area — towel, flip-flops, etc?

Only bring to the pool what you plan to swim with (suit, cap, goggles, ear plugs, nose plug). Keep anything else that you’re not swimming with in the transition area by your bike. It’s a very short distance from pool to transition with smooth concrete and grass surfaces, so no need for shoes/flip flops. If you need a towel, best to leave it in your transition area and dry off when you get there.

You must bring all your swim gear back to your transition area. Don’t leave your goggles, cap etc. at the pool deck (unless you want to make a donation to lost & found).

Question: Can I stop and hold onto the wall to rest during the swim?

Yes. Feel free to stop and rest during the swim as much as you need to while remaining in your lane. There’s no penalty for not completing the distance if you can’t finish it within about 13 minutes (main course) or 8 minutes (short course). At that time, you will be asked to exit the pool regardless of whether you completed the distance. If you need medical assistance at any time, get to a wall or grab a lane line and raise your hand and/or call out to catch the attention of a volunteer or lifeguard.

Also note that you are permitted to push off the wall at each turn. This means 17 strong pushes for the main course, and 3 strong pushes for the short course. Take advantage of this unique feature of the AlbanyTri which is not available in open water triathlons!

Question: What if I need assistance getting out of the pool?

The east and west decks of the outdoor pool (see course map) rise up approximately 18 inches over the level of the water, posing a challenge for many new swimmers. It’s a good idea to practice exiting the pool before race day.

If you need help exiting the pool, you may ask a willing volunteer to lend a hand to help pull you up, or you may swim in the pool along the west deck to the left or right corners where there are exit ladders. The shallow lane along the south deck of the pool has built-in stairs which are super easy to walk up. Be careful to not bump into swimmers in adjacent lanes when crossing lanes to get to an exit!

Question: Can I wear a snorkel during the swim portion of the AlbanyTri? What about other swimming devices?

Snorkels are permitted at the AlbanyTri, since the USAT rulebook does not specifically ban them. Generally, snorkels are rarely seen in triathlons since they are not practical in open water events. Other organizations or races do ban them. See this article for a good run-down.

Kickboards are also permitted — if you feel you need one during the swim. These are available in the equipment area near the entrance to the outdoor pool. Use the pool’s ample supply rather than bringing your own. If you do use a kickboard, you must return it to the supply bin at the end of your swim.

No flippers, paddles, pull buoys, rubber duckies or other devices are permitted during the swim (though feel free to train with them to your heart’s content!).

Wetsuits are permitted at the AlbanyTri because the water temp is below 84°F (the outdoor pool is ~80°F). However, unless you have a circulation problem or just want to practice swimming with one, wearing a wetsuit is discouraged as you may overheat (especially if it’s a warm day). Also, a wetsuit will slow down your transition to the bike — which is more of a factor for a super sprint.

Question: What swimming stroke can I use during the swim?

As with any triathlon, you are free to use any stroke you want during the swim leg of the race. Most triathletes will use the front crawl (a.k.a. ‘freestyle‘) as it is the most efficient and usually the fastest for most swimmers.

Strokes that involve a wider arm or leg motion such as butterfly, breast, or side stroke are fine, but be sure to stay in your half of the split lane so that you avoid kicking or hitting the swimmer with whom you are sharing a lane. To be safe, you super-wide, long-legged kickers can briefly pause or alter your stroke when passing by the adjacent swimmer, especially if they also have a wide kick or arm span.

Regardless of what stroke you use: unintentional drifting happens especially with inexperienced swimmers, of which there are many at the AlbanyTri. So it’s wise for both swimmers sharing a lane to keep an eye out for each other to minimize any unintended contact (just like you do when training, right?).

Question: Can I do flip turns during the swim?

Yes. You will have your own split lane, so it’s entirely up to you to decide how you want to turn at the walls: open turn, flip turn, stop-and-rest-before-turning, etc. The only requirement is that you touch each wall with at least one hand or foot.

Flip turners should choose a deeper lane and avoid the shallowest lane at the south end of the pool which is about 4 feet deep. While it is still possible to flip turn in the shallow lane, it feels awkward. Also, the shallow lane may be needed for participants that chose to water-walk the swim.

And whether you flip turn or open turn, remember that you are permitted to push off the wall at each turn with your best streamline technique. This means 17 strong pushes for the main course or 3 strong pushes for the short course. Take advantage of this unique feature that you won’t get in an open water triathlon! Experienced swimmers will get past the flags underwater before starting their stroke on every wall push!

And in case we have any Olympians in the race… note that the maximum you can go underwater off of each wall is 15 meters (16.4 yards), or about 2/3rds the length of the 25y pool, and this distance is indicated with a marking on each lane line.

Bike Questions

Question: Should I ride on the right or left or middle of the street?

Bike on the RIGHT. Pass on the LEFT. Stay on the right side of the street and pass slower cyclists only on their left, shouting “ON YOUR LEFT!” as you approach. Never pass on the right side of a slower cyclist! A bell can also help make the cyclist ahead of you aware of your presence when passing. Biking in the center or left side of the road just prior to entering a turn is fine (and actually recommended), but stay aware of cyclists around you when heading into a corner.

No drafting. Do not ride immediately behind another cyclist in their draft zone. Official USAT rules are to keep a minimum of three bike lengths behind the rider in front of you and three feet from a rider to the side of you. When passing, you have 15 seconds to pass through that zone.

Watch for spectators. Memorial Park will remain open to the public during this event, so be on the lookout for wayward bystanders, spectators, park goers, dogs, toddlers, and runners who may enter the street without looking.

Be careful near the mount/dismount zones. Watch for bikers entering and exiting the course near the mount and dismount zones (halfway down Portland Ave.). Continuing cyclists keep to the left and when finishing your final (12th) lap, slow way down and move to the right side of the road when approaching the dismount zone.

Question: Any tips for counting my laps on the bike course?

The bike course of the Main course involves twelve (12) complete laps in a clockwise direction circling the block around the Aquatic Center, High School, and Memorial Park. One of the most challenging parts of the AlbanyTri course is keeping track of your laps on the bike. You are responsible for keeping track of your bike lap count, since there is no chip-based lap counter on the course. The Short course has only three (3) laps — easier to track, but could still be a challenge for toddlers.

The seemingly simple task of keeping track of your lap count can be quite mentally taxing during the Main course event and it’s easy to loose track of your lap count. Even if you designate a spectating family member to count for you, they can easily get confused and lose track too. So stay attentive and consider these suggestions to help you count your bike laps:

  • Yell out the number of your current lap as you round every corner of the square route.
    • This serves as a repeated, audible reminder to yourself.
    • Pro tip: Count your bike lap number in a different language to make it more interesting!
    • Super-Pro tip: use sign language to signal your lap to yourself for a kinesthetic reminder 🤙
  • Before the race, place twelve post-it flags on your bike frame (one for each lap).
    • Pull a tab as you complete each lap.
    • Don’t litter! Put the spent stickers in a pocket or on your bike shorts.
  • If you’re wearing a watch with stopwatch functionality, press the lap button each time you complete a lap to track your total lap count. The watch should indicate the lap count when you press the lap button. You could also time your first one or two laps and use that to estimate your total time for all 12. Don’t forget to press it on each lap!
  • If you have a GPS device on your bike or watch or an odometer, use that to track your distance traveled. Total bike distance should be between 6.3 to 6.5 miles (~10.3k) after 12 laps, depending on the accuracy of your device and how wide you take the corners.
  • Enlist the help of a friend, family member, or spectator to yell out your current lap number as you zoom by. Even for a spectator, keeping track of your laps can be challenging. Remember you are ultimately responsible if they miscount!
  • If you have a cycling computer/odometer on your bike, set the mileage to zero while you are  setting up in the transition area, or make a note of your starting mileage so you will know your target mileage will be after ~6.4 miles.  Each lap is approximately 0.53 miles.

Question: Do I get a bike or bring my own?

Definitely bring your own bike, take it out on some test rides before the event, and have a knowledgeable bike mechanic inspect it to ensure it’s good to go on race day!

A bike mechanic may be available in the transition area on race day to help with last minute minor repairs and adjustments if you need help.

There is no mandatory pre-race bike check.

Question: Do I need to wear a helmet?

Yes. Cyclists are required to wear a helmet that complies with USCPSC Safety Standards for bicycle helmets.

Question: Will my bike be safe sitting there in the transition area?

Yes. No need to bring a bike lock, but you can if you want for use after the race. We will have burly volunteers whose sole job is to verify that only registered athletes are in the transition areas. At check-in you will receive two (2) wrist bands marked with your race number and heat number. Put one of these on your wrist (right arm) and the other on the top tube of your bike. At the end of the race when leaving with your bike, the security volunteers will check that your wrist band matches your bike band, so nobody leaves with the wrong bike!

Question: Can I use an electric bike or pedal-assist bicycle?

No. While recognizing that eBikes are becoming increasingly popular and can be quite fun to ride, only fully human powered bicycles are allowed on the AlbanyTri course! If your only bike is an eBike, please ride it at the AlbanyTri uncharged or without its battery. 🚴‍♂️

Run Questions

Question: Can I run in the street?

For most of the course, stay on the sidewalk or grass just inside the street to avoid colliding with bikers. Along Carmel Ave. and Thousand Oaks, where the sidewalk is either non-existent or very rough, you are permitted to run in the street near the edge of the road. Cones and barriers will be set up to separate runners from bikers in the street, but stay heads-up alert for oncoming cyclists if you choose to run in the street on those sections of the course.

Also avoid running through the middle of Memorial park itself since the park is open to the general public during the race.

See the course maps.

Question: Will anyone be counting my running laps?

No. As on the bike course, you must count your own laps. Yelling out your current lap number on the corners will help you keep track. Many runners have missed a lap on the run, disqualifying themselves from a podium spot.

The run course consists of 3 complete laps around the park, school, Aquatic center, running in a counter-clockwise direction around the park (opposite from the cycling direction).-

As of 2018: Construction at Albany High School prevented us from using the alleyway in between the Albany HS gym and baseball field as we have historically done for our finish area. The new finish area starting in 2018 will be located on the main lawn in Memorial Park just past the transition area. Runners will cross the finish line just after completing their third run lap.

Transition Area

Question: Where will the transition area(s) be located?

The transition area will be located in the grass lawn of Memorial Park that lies in between the south wall of the tennis courts and Portland Ave. All competitors must use the bike racks in this area which will be set up specially for the AlbanyTri, encircled with barricades and monitored for security.

Question: Will the transition area be the same for T1 and T2?

Yes.  You will enter the transition area at an access point located on East side of the grass field, along the sidewalk directly across from the Aquatic center.  All athletes will use the same transition area, for both short course and main course. There will be designated zones for relay teams and Short course participants (see below).

Note that the bike-out/bike-in portal will be separate from the outbound runners’ portal and each will require passing over timing chip reader mats.  Be careful to stay well away from the timing mats before the start of your heat so your chip will not be read inadvertently, causing bad data in the results. Swimmers will pass over a different timing mat upon exiting the outdoor pool area and on the way towards the transition area (basketball court area).

Lingo note: T1=swim-to-bike transition; T2=bike-to-run transition.

Question: How much room does each person get in the transition area? Does everything have to be stored on the bike or in a bag, or can it be spread out?

You’ll get about the space of a yoga mat or beach towel underneath/next to your racked bike. Keep everything compactly within that area, like this. Only the items that are required for the swim, bike, and run should be readily accessible in a compact space by your bike. Everything else should be packed away. A small-to-medium backpack for extra gear is recommended.

Question: Will there be assigned spots per participant in the transition area?

There are no assigned spots for each participant in the transition area, but there will be a few designated zones:

  1. Relay team zone: for members of relay teams on the main course, near the large redwood tree
  2. Short course zone: for short course athletes only, near the shorter bike racks

Other athletes not in these categories should select a spot outside those zones. Within each zone and elsewhere, you are free to choose any spot that’s available when you arrive. You may use either side of any bike rack. Adjacent athletes should use alternating sides of the rack to help reduce crowding.

If you arrive after the first heat of the short course at 7:50am or the main course at 9:15am, note that there will be cyclists on the course and their transition spots will be temporarily vacated — they are on the bike course and will be coming back to transition! Ensure you are not putting your bike in their spot by making sure it is free of gear (running shoes, towel, backpack, etc.). Ask a volunteer if you need assistance finding an empty spot — they are eager to help!

Space in the transition area is on a first-come first-served basis. Arrive earlier for an easier time finding a spot, and see the next FAQ item about how to rack your bike!

Question: How should I rack my bike?

All athletes (individuals and teams) will use bike racks consisting of a long horizontal bar about 4.5 feet off the ground. Shorter bike racks for kid-sized bikes will be available. Hang the front of your bike seat (or handlebar brakes, if convenient) on the horizontal bar, with adjacent bikes racked on alternating sides of the bar as shown here to reduce crowding. There should be space for 7-8 bikes per rack if things are arranged efficiently. Try to be space-efficient there as well! This video provides good bike racking tips which is applicable to the AlbanyTri except for numbered spaces on the racks, which we don’t use.

There are no assigned spaces for athletes on the bike racks at the AlbanyTri. Use any available rack, but be careful not to use a space that has gear under it, since that could belong to another athlete currently on the bike course! As a volunteer in the transition area for help if you need assistance.

Short course athletes will have a designated area in the main transition area, located near the shorter bike racks — lower to the ground to accommodate young kid-sized bikes.

Athletes should not use the blue bike racks located in front of the Aquatic Center, which will be used for our registration and information area.

Spectators, volunteers, and other non-athlete visitors that cycle to the event should use the racks near the front entrance to Albany High, indicated with “Spectator bike parking” on the course map.

Question: Should I wear my swim suit on the bike and run or should I change clothes?

Standard practice for experienced triathletes is to stay in your swim suit for the bike and run. This is because transitioning between legs of the race is part of your overall time. So if you’re the competitive type, you’ll want to minimize that time. If you are more interested in comfort rather than speed, changing clothes is perfectly fine. However, note that nudity is not allowed in the transition area! Use the changing rooms in the Aquatic Center if you need to strip down. Thanks!

Depending on your needs, a standard, non-bikini-style lycra swim suit should work fine. You can find specially made triathlon suits by visiting some of our sponsors such as Transports (on Solano Ave in Albany) or Sports Basement (on Milvia in Berkeley). If you tell them you’re doing the Albany Tri, they may give you a discount!

Regardless of what you choose to do clothing-wise, it’s a good idea to practice in the exact attire you plan to wear on race day to minimize wardrobe-related surprises!

Relay Teams

Question: What types of relay teams are there?

A relay team consists of 2 or 3 members, where a different person completes the different legs of the race (or one person of a 2-member team does any two of the legs).

There are two types of relay teams: (1) adult/mixed and (2) all youth. The adult/mixed team has at least one participant that is 18 years of age or older. All participants on the youth teams must be under 18 years of age. Registration of youth teams requires a parent or guardian, acting as team captain, to complete the registration form. This is just for registration purposes — the parent/guardian won’t be listed as an event participant.

The registering parent of a youth team must get permission from a parent/guardian of all other youth team members who are not their own children. Then when you select, “You are this person’s parent or legal guardian,” you are doing so on behalf of each child’s parent/guardian.

Names, ages, t-shirt size, and contact email for each team member completing the swim, bike, and run portions of the triathlon are entered on the registration form.

See the next item about relay team member hand-off logistics during the event.

Question: How does the transitioning between relay team members work during the race?

The relay team members must transfer the timing chip from person to person using the following strategy:

    • The swimmer starts out with the timing chip strapped to their left ankle with the chip facing out, and completes the swim portion with the strap on.
    • For the swim-to-bike transition:
      • The cyclist will be waiting in the transition area next to the bike.
      • When the swimmer completes the swim and arrives at the transition area, the swimmer removes the timing chip velcro strap from their own ankle and attaches it to the LEFT ankle of the cyclist, with chip facing out.
      • The cyclist then embarks on the bike course.
    • For the bike-to-run transition:
      • The runner will be waiting in the transition area where the bike is to be parked.
      • After completing the bike course, the cyclist returns to their transition area space whereupon the runner removes the timing chip from the cyclist’s ankle and transfers it to his/her own left ankle.
      • The runner then embarks on the run

Thus, for a three-member relay team, the cyclist will never need to touch the timing chip. For a two-member relay team, one person will perform both the swimmer+cyclist duties or the cyclist+runner duties. Be sure to attach the chip to the LEFT ANKLE of the cyclist with the chip facing out. This will improve detection by the timing system.

After crossing the finish line, the chip must be removed from the runner and handed to a race volunteer. Failure to return the chip will result in a $60 fine.

Short Course Questions

Question: When will the short course race start?

The first short course heat will start at 7:50am with subsequent heats starting every 10 minutes up till the final heat at 8:50am.

Question: Will the short course use the same transition area as the main course?

Yes. The short course transition area will be in a designated sub-section of the main transition area, roughly indicated on the map (see course info). Smaller bike racks will be provided for the smaller kid-sized bikes.

Question: When is check-in time for the short course race?

Check-in time for short course is 6:45–7:30am.

If you are racing in the main course and want to be available to help or watch your child do the short course race, be sure to specify on the online registration form: “Parent or guardian of a SHORT COURSE participant” so we can optimize your heat assignment.

Question: Are training wheels allowed on bikes during the short course race?

Yes, training wheels are permitted for the short course race. But get ready — when your child sees other little kids biking without them, your child may not be using them for too much longer!

Special Features Questions

Question: How does the “Friends & Family” system work?

When you register for the AlbanyTri, there is a “Friends & Family” section where can indicate your desire to start in the same swim heat as other participants (child, parent, spouse, friends, etc.). That way, you can start in the race together & keep an eye on each other (but not assist each other, per triathlon rules).

You can also indicate a preference to start in a different swim heat from another competitor, in case you prefer to spectate/support your child or friend from the sidelines before or after your race.

The registration form provides an place for you to supply the name(s) of the other competitors you wish to be in the same or different heat with. Be sure to use the same name they will use to register, and remind them to register, or sign them up when you register (if you have all their personal info: birthdate, address, email, etc.).

Question: How does the “Beat-a-Triathlete” system work?

Athletes can boost their fundraising efforts by pledging to donate an extra dollar amount for everyone that can beat their time, up to a limit. All proceeds go to Albany Athletics — same fundraising target as for the triathlon. Relay teams can also register for this challenge. Here’s how it works:

  • On the registration form you can indicate your preference to opt-in to the Beat-A-Triathlete challenge. The organizers will follow up with you later to confirm and collect your preferences. Experienced triathletes are especially encouraged to opt-in to this — guaranteed to make you go faster!
  • After you register for the event, the organizers will send you a link to a web-based form (for example, the 2024 form), where you can specify how much you’re willing to donate for each person that beats your finish time, and what your total donation limit is (if any).
  • You also decide the size of the field you want to compete against: all participants, all men, all women, or just the members of your 10-year age group bracket.
  • The amount of your donation will be determined after official race results are computed.
  • Make your donation by visiting the Albany Athletics donation page.
  • All Beat-A-Triathletes will receive a certificate of appreciation.
  • Since 2013, one of the event co-organizers has offered $10 for any participant or team that beat him. He had to pay up an extra $10 in 2013 and, as the race has grown, $30-$40 in 2014-16. He plans to do this again. Consider joining him with your own Beat-A-Triathlete challenge!

General Questions

Question: When do I go where? How does this triathlon work?

Here’s a basic description. See the rest of the this FAQ more details about each step:

  • Review the course map before race day!
  • On Saturday before race day, pick up your race packet at Roadrunner Sports in Berkeley between 1:00-4:00pm. This contains your matching, numbered wrist bands, t-shirt and other race materials. It will also include your timing chip which is very important to bring with you on race day
  • On race day morning, put one of the matching wrist bands on your wrist (left or right – opposite your watch if you wear one), the other on the top tube of your bike. Put your wrist bands on before arriving at the event. Strap the timing chip firmly around your LEFT ankle with the chip facing out.
  • When you get to the venue, find an open place on a bike rack in the transition area to rack your bike. There will be designated bike racks for participants doing the short course as well as for main course relay team members. Other athletes should choose a location on a bike rack not in those zones. If you arrive to the venue after the event has started, try not to chose a space that appears to be in use by a cyclist currently on the course (for example, if there’s a backpack and other gear under an empty section of the bike rack). Also, carefully note where your bike is so you can find it while you are transitioning from the swim.
  • If you didn’t pick up your packet on Saturday before race day, go to the registration table. There you will receive your timing chip and other materials.
  • Put your timing chip securely on your left ankle with the plastic chip facing out. A volunteer at the registration table will assist you if you need help. Don’t attach it to your wrist or elsewhere on your body because it must be near the ground in order to trip the detector. Put on the chip ASAP so you don’t forget! At the race venue, avoid crossing over the chip timing mats before the start of your race, as that leads to bad timing results data.
  • Get body marked with your race number and age by a volunteer located near the transition area entrance or the registration check-in tables. Your race number is written on your wrist bands and may be different from the number indicated on the timing chip.
  • Head back to where you racked your bike in the transition area and arrange all the gear you need for the swim, bike, & run in a compact area underneath it. A towel or yoga mat for arranging your stuff is useful here.
  • Head over to the indoor or outdoor pools to warm up at least 10 minutes before your heat starts. Feel free to do some jogging warm ups in the park or biking warm ups outside the bike course. And remember to steer clear of the chip timing mats before your race starts!
  • Be at the west end of the outdoor pool by 5-10 minutes before your heat start time and pick an empty lane. First come, first served. Feel free to do some easy swimming, but be at the west wall at least by t-minus 60 seconds before your heat’s start time. Listen to the pool captain/heat starter for instructions.
  • The clock for your race time starts when your swim heat starts ends when you complete the run. Transition times are included in your overall time.
  • Swim 17 lengths in the outdoor pool (main course) or 3 lengths (short course). You’ll have your own half-lane to swim in. Stay on your side — no circle swimming. When you complete the distance or 13 minutes transpires (whichever is sooner), get out of the pool and jog over to the transition area to get your bike. En route, you must cross over a chip timing mat located in between the pool and the transition area. This records the end of your swim and the start of the first transition period (T1).
  • Jog into the transition area at the “Swim In” sign. Go to your designated area and take off your swim gear (goggles & cap), put on your helmet, shoes, sunglasses and any other cycling gear, then walk or jog with your bike to the “Bike In/Out” sign where you cross over another chip timing mat to start timing your bike leg. enter the street and start the bike course. Watch for others cyclists on the course and others coming back into the transition area passing through the same bike in/out access point.
  • Bike 12 laps (main course) or 3 laps (short course) as fast as you can (safely) in a clockwise direction. Be diligent about counting your laps — it’s very easy to lose track! See “Bike Questions” for lap counting tips.
  • Dismount your bike on the far right side of the street near the transition area and walk/jog your bike to the “Bike In/Out” sign where you will cross over the same chip timing mat that you crossed on the way out. This records the end of your bike leg and the start of the second transition period (T2). Be heads-up for other cyclists coming the other way through the same bike in/out access point to start their bike leg. Return to your designated place in the transition area where your gear is, walking or jogging your bike through the transition area.
  • Rack your bike, take off your bike helmet & shoes, put on your running shoes (if different from your cycling shoes), then exit the transition area by the “Run Out” sign where you must cross over a different chip timing mat to start timing your run leg.
  • Run 3 laps (main course) or 1 lap (short course) around the park in a CCW direction (opposite to the biking direction) on the sidewalk perimeter of the park or on designated areas of the road near the sidewalk. Again, be diligent about counting your laps — it’s easy to lose track! On the final lap, you’ll run to the finish line after running next to the transition area, along the tennis courts. There, you will cross the final chip timing mat.
  • After you finish the run, smile for the cameras, remove your timing chip ankle strap and hand it to a volunteer, or permit a volunteer to remove it for you. Failing to return your chip will result in a $60 charge.
  • Congratulations for finishing! 🙂
  • Get some refreshments, schmooze with friends & family, sign up for a massage (if available), and keep an eye out for preliminary results to be posted near the main stage in Memorial Park. Stick around (or return to the venue) for the awards ceremony around 12:30pm.
  • If you have a child registered for the short course race: Check-in time for the short course starts at 7am and first short course heat will start at 8am. Use the designated sub-section of the main transition area for the short course transition space (the area with shorter bike racks). See course info for details about the short course.
  • If you think you missed a lap on the bike or run: notify the chip timing person near the finish area as soon as possible. You’ll be out of contention for a prize, but your honesty will be very much appreciated!

Wardrobe Note: Most folks keep their swim suit on for the whole race, or wear a special triathlon suit, so they don’t have to change clothes. Changing clothes will slow down your overall time which includes the time it takes to transition between the different legs of the race. Be sure to check out the other FAQ items on this page for more details about different parts of the triathlon. You might also want to read up on triathlon basics, such as here or here.

Question: When will I get my race day materials?

All individual entrants should pick up their race day materials at packet pick up on Saturday before race day (see Registration Questions). Packets can also be picked up on race day morning at the registration area, but picking your packet up on Saturday is strongly recommended. The day, time and location of packet pickup will be specified in an email from albanycommunitytriathlon.com, as well as posted on our News page.

All adults: bring a photo ID. Registration materials will include timing chip, swag, t-shirt, and numbered wrist bands. You can pick up packets for friends, family, or relay team members. Bring some form of ID for the people for whom you are picking up packets, if they don’t share you surname.

The wrist bands will be marked with your race number and heat number. Put one of these on your wrist (either arm is ok, but avoid the arm with your watch if you wear one), and the other band on the top tube of your bike. This helps us identify participants and to better secure and manage the transition area. Put these before arriving at the venue on race day, or at the registration table if you didn’t pick them up on Saturday.

When you arrive on race day, pick a spot in the transition area to park your bike (space is first-come, first-served; relay teams will use a special area separate from the individual athletes — team captains: coordinate your location with your team members). Then proceed to the main check-in table to get your timing chip (if you didn’t get it at packet pick up on Saturday) and sign the waiver (team members or their guardians who didn’t sign the online waiver).

Once you have your registration materials and know your bib number, head over to get body marked by a race volunteer near the registration tables.

Relay teams: All team members must check-in with team name or captain’s name. All members of a team will have their own wrist band which will be identically marked, but will share the same timing chip. The timing chip needs to be transferred between team members during the race — see Relay section of this FAQ for details.

Question: When will I know what heat I’m in?

Heat assignments are finalized after online registration closes (11:59PM on Wed before race day) and will be posted on the next day (Thu before race day). Preliminary heat assignments will be provided approximately two weeks ahead of the event but are subject to change. Heat assignments will be posted in the News section of AlbanyTri.com (for example, see the 2016 heat assignments). We will attempt to accommodate heat change requests if received by Thursday of race week, and will post the final heat assignments on Friday before race day.

Main course participants start the swim in heats of 20 swimmers starting every 15 minutes. Short course participants also start in groups of 20 swimmers but every 10 minutes. Heat assignments are primarily based on registration date as well as other information provided by participants on the registration form such as friends & family preference, first heat preference, and club affiliation.

On race day, there will be very limited ability to change heats. Please start in your assigned heat. If you start in the wrong heat, you may not receive any race results or be eligible for prizes. If you believe you started in the wrong heat, notify the chip timing person at the finish line as soon as possible after you complete the event so we can adjust your start time.

Question: Will faster/slower/older/younger athletes be segregated into different swim heats?

Swim heat assignment will be based primarily on registration order, with the earlier heats filling up before later heats. The first heat of the Short and Main courses will be reserved for faster athletes who indicate their preference for the first heat when registering for the event.

Family and friends can be designated during registration to indicate whether you want to start in the same or different heat from another participant. Members of the same swimming, cycling, running, etc. club will also be grouped together to the extent possible (“club affiliation”).

The majority of the Short course competitors will be kids, but some adults will be mixed in as well, if for example, they elected to start in the same heat as their child during registration (“family & friends, same heat”).

Question: When should I arrive on race day morning to check in?

The registration area will open at ~6:45am and will be located in front of the Aquatic Center along Portland Ave.

  • If you are in the Short Course (any heat): arrive between 6:45–7:00am
  • If you are in Main Course heats 1-3: arrive between 8:00-8:15am
  • If you are in Main Course heats 4-6: arrive between 8:45-9:00am
  • If you are in Main Course heats 7+: arrive between 9:45-10:00am
  • First time triathletes or those wanting more prep time should arrive a little earlier to allow for more prep time and an easier time finding a spot in the transition area.

If you picked up your race packet on Saturday, you can proceed directly to transition area and locate a spot for your bike and gear. Otherwise, you’ll need to collect your race packet on Sunday morning before your event starts at the registration area. Allow more time for that in case there are long lines for same-day packet pickup.

After parking your bike in the transition area, find a volunteer near the registration tables to get body marked with your race number (left upper arm & front of left thigh) and age (back of left calf).

After 7:50am there will be bikers & runners on the course for the Short Course, and after 9:15am there will be bikers & runners on the course for the Main Course. So if you arrive after those times, be heads up for these competing participants when crossing the streets & sidewalks into the venue. Thanks!

General announcements near the registration area will be made at 7:30am (before the short course start) and repeated at 8:50am (before the main course start). Announcements will also be made periodically throughout the morning to indicate the next heat to start and other tips.

Question: Where should I park? Can I take mass transit?

If you’re a local (Berkeley, Albany, El Cerrito, Kensington, Richmond, Oakland), consider biking to the start! This will reduce congestion in the area and reduce our carbon footprint. Spectators can park bikes near the front entrance to AHS as indicated on our course map.

If you need to drive to the race, the best places to park are along any of the streets that encircle the “feeder streets” around Memorial Park. Here’s a google map. This would include the following avenues: Spokane, San Carlos, Washington, Ward, Brighton. Parking on Carmel, Portland, Thousand Oaks, or Key Route is also fine as long as you are at least 2 blocks away from Memorial Park, since those streets will be closed around the Park during the race.

Mass transit (BART): Bikes are permitted on BART, so BART is a reasonable way to commute to the event. Note that on Sunday, trains start operation at 8:00am, which won’t work if you are doing the Short course, and might be a little tight (depending on where you live) to make it to the first heat of the Main course which starts at 9:15 am. The Albany Aquatic Center is 0.8 miles from the El Cerrito Plaza BART station, and 2 miles from North Berkeley BART. Take the Ohlone Greenway bike path to Portland Ave (look for the light blue “Albany” tube art). Then go 2 blocks East to the Aquatic Center.

Question: Are we responsible for counting our own laps on all segments?

We will have lap counters in the pool, but not on the bike or run course. Best advice: be prepared to count your own laps, even in the pool since we may not have enough volunteers to cover all swim lanes. Be sure to practice counting your swim laps, bike laps, and run laps before race day! See the swim, bike, and run sections of this FAQ for lap-counting tips.

This question really gets to a larger, philosophical area of the sport of triathlon: doing a tri is expected to be very much an individual effort. Under normal circumstances, athletes should not receive ANY outside help apart from volunteers or other race officials. This way, when you complete a triathlon, it is very much your personal accomplishment that you can be proud of — achieved on a level playing field on the same course with all other competitors. Things like asking a spectator for help counting your laps, or asking a buddy (or other competitor) to help you put on your bike shoes or hand you a water bottle are technically disallowed. You can certainly ask a volunteer on the course for help if you need it.

While we strive to conform to USAT regulations as much as possible (such as no drafting on the bike course), the Albany Community Triathlon is, at its heart, geared towards beginners and introducing new athletes to the fun & challenge of the sport. We allow kids to compete alongside their parents, and friends & family members start together in the same swim heat. We won’t disqualify a parent for helping tie their kid’s shoes during T2 for example, but we expect such assistance to be minimal and in the interests of promoting safety and maximizing fun.

Question: What if it rains on race day?

Then we will swim, bike, and run (carefully) in the rain ☺. Unless there is a thunderstorm with lightening or severe flash flooding, the race will not be cancelled in event of rain. Historically, weather conditions have been excellent on race day, with lots of California sun and temperatures in the 60s-70s (F). The venue tends to be quite sunny on race day, so bring sunblock and a hat to wear when hanging out post-race.

Question: What if air quality is bad on race day?

The AlbanyTri takes place at the end of summer and during peak dry season in Northern California when wildfires have become increasingly common. As of Saturday morning 24hrs before race day, if the air quality index (AQI) is predicted to be at or above “unhealthy” levels (151 or higher, red zone) on race day, the event will be cancelled all participants will be given full credit towards next year’s event. Postponing the event to a later date in is not generally possible due to scheduling and logistics complexities.

If the AQI is predicted to be at or below the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” range (101-150, orange zone), the event will take place and any participants not willing to compete due to air quality reasons will be given credit towards next year’s event.

If air quality threatens to be an issue this year, stay tuned to emails from “AlbanyCommunityTriathlon@gmail.com” and our social media channels as the event date approaches and cross your fingers for clean air!

Question: Where will the restrooms be? Is there a locker room?

The Aquatic Center has men’s and women’s restrooms which will open between 6:30–7:00am and close at 12:30pm on race day. The Center has small changing areas for men & women and a limited number (~20) of lockers for your use (most athletes will leave all belongings in a backpack in the transition area by their bike, which will be fairly secure). If you use the lockers, be sure to retrieve your belongings before 12:30pm when the center closes. Memorial Park has 2-person men’s and women’s restrooms located along Carmel Ave. near the kiddy park area. It will be locked until ~8-9am.

Question: Are there any prizes for winners?

Ultimately, every participant is a winner! 🙂

Prizes will be given to the overall top three male & female in the adult and youth divisions in the Main and Short courses, and the top relay team. A prize will also be awarded to the top relay team in the Main course, combining the youth and adult/mixed divisions.

Top-three finishers of each age group (male and female) will also receive a prize (typically, a Solano Avenue Association gift card).

Age groups:

  • Main course age groups: 9-17, 18-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, 70+
  • Short course: 6-12, 13-17, 18+

For the age group prizes, you must be present at the post-race awards ceremony at the event to claim your prize. Unclaimed gift cards will be raffled off to those present at the ceremony — by drawing wrist bands of attendees from a hat/jug!

Question: Where is a good place for spectators?

Spectators for the swim can watch from the bleachers on the south side of the pool deck near the entrance to the Aquatic Center. Stay off the pool deck and the swim exit ramps on the East side of the pool since there will be many volunteers helping with lap counting, and we want to reduce congestion so that swimmers can quickly exit the pool through the East side of the deck (towards the basketball courts) as they make their way towards the transition area. Entrance to the pool (for athletes and spectators) is only through the front door of the Aquatic Center.

There is also a space on the north side of the pool deck between the fence and a row of classrooms which may be accessible from the basketball court area (if not, ask the aquatics staff to unlock it).

Generally, spectators should stay clear of the athlete access points into and out of the transition area. The AlbanyTri venue is quite compact and there are areas where athletes on the course tend to cross paths with spectators and athletes in and around the sidewalk near the registration tables (near Portland & Pomona avenues). Child athletes can have one parent enter transition area with them to help them set up, but parents not participating in the event with their child should exit the transition area once their child has started the race.

For watching the bikers and runners, any spot along the sidewalk or grass in and around Memorial Park is fine except near the bike mount and dismount zones. Stay heads-up for swimmers running from the pool and runners/bikers on the course. Cross the streets to enter the park at crosswalks and only when it’s clear of cyclists. Be sure to CHEER LOUDLY and bring your cow bells and conch shells to make extra noise — it really helps the athletes go faster! Parents keep a close eye on toddlers and pets to keep them from running into the street.

Question: Can I connect with AlbanyTri on social media?

Absolutely! We’re @AlbanyTri on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. This is a good way to get notified about latest updates and receive other triathlon-related tips. You can also follow our blog (the News tab) on this website for news updates.

Question: Is there an email list for the AlbanyTri?

We have an announcement google group. All current registrants are automatically added to this list. If you’re not on it (and haven’t recently registered for the event), feel free to send a join request. It’s low-volume and read-only (posting only by race organizers), but if you would rather not be on the list, use the “unsubscribe” button at the bottom of any message you receive.

Question: For which organization does the AlbanyTri raise funds?

The Albany Community Triathlon is a fundraiser for the Albany Athletics Boosters — a 501(c)(3) non-profit raising funds for both high school & middle school athletic programs. Between 2012–2023, we raised approximately $85,000 net proceeds from registration fees and sponsor donations. Many thanks to all past and current participants and sponsors for contributing to this achievement, as well as our hard working organizers & event volunteers!

Registration fees are not tax-deductible since goods and services were rendered. However, additional donation to Albany Athletics are tax deductible. Head over to the AAB donation page. Your contribution both for the triathlon and any extra donation you wish to make are very appreciated! 🙂

Question: How does the current AlbanyTri course differ from previous years?

The AlbanyTri originally took place in 2008 and skipped 2010-11 while the Aquatic Center was being renovated. The 2009 AlbanyTri was a bike & run “Dry-Tri” — dropping the swim since the pool was closed. If you competed in 2008 or ’09 and remember details of those courses, drop us a line!

In 2012 with the opening of the newly renovated Aquatic Center, the main course was modified to be close to a typical Super Sprint triathlon (400m swim, 10k bike, 3k run). There were changes to the AlbanyTri bike and run legs of the main course in 2018 and 2019 as described below. If you have results from earlier years, they won’t be directly comparable. The main course swim leg has not changed since 2012, so that portion will be comparable for all subsequent years.

Main course run course changes:

  • In 2018, the run course became 3 complete laps (2.5k), where runners run behind the transition area instead of staying on the sidewalk along Portland Ave, and finish in the park by the stage instead of finishing in the alley next to the Albany High gym. This avoids runners crossing paths with bikers entering & exiting the transition area.
  • Between 2012-2017, the run portion was 3.5 laps (3k) staying on the sidewalk on Portland Ave and finishing in the alley next to the Albany High gym, entering there from Thousand Oaks Ave. School construction projects starting in 2018 blocked the alleyway, making it impossible to use this alley.

Main course bike course changes:

  • In 2019 the bike course became 12 laps instead of 11 laps as it was pre-2019. This makes the bike leg slightly over 10K rather than slightly under 10K as it was with just 11 laps. If you use a GPS device, the distance it reports will be about 6.4 miles, but could vary depending on satellite coverage, device accuracy, and how wide you take the turns!

Short course changes:

  • The Short course was introduced in the 2016 AlbanyTri where it was dubbed the “Super Youth” course and was kids only (5-8yo). It consisted of a a 25y swim (1 length), 0.5 mile bike (1 lap), and 0.25 mile run (half-lap). In 2018, the Super Youth course was lengthened 3x to its present-day format and targeted 7-10 year olds (excluding 5 & 6 year olds who often required lots of parental assistance).
  • In 2023, the Super Youth course was renamed the Short course and was opened to adults as well as kids ages 6 and up. This allowed parents to race alongside their kids, as well as anyone looking for an ultra-short triathlon to do. Also in 2018, the Short course event start time was moved to 8am, taking place BEFORE the main course instead of after it (~11am) as in previous years.

What are the actual distances of the swim, bike, and run courses?

  • Actual course distances:
    • Swim: Outdoor pool is 25 yards per length
      • Short course: Three pool lengths = 75 yards = 68.6 meters
      • Main course: 17 pool lengths = 425 yards = 389 meters
    • Bike: One lap around the block is 0.54 +/- 0.1 miles
      • Short course: Three laps = 1.6 miles = 2.6 km
      • Main course: 12 laps = 6.5 miles = 10.4 km
    • Run: One lap around the block is 0.54 miles
      • Short course: One laps = 0.54 miles = 0.87 km
      • Main course: Three laps = 1.6 miles = 2.6 km
  • Approximate course distances – using the international metric standard for triathlons:
    • Short course: 70 meter swim, 2.5 km bike, 1 km run
    • Main course: 400 meter swim, 10 km bike, 2.5 km run

Question: Anything else I should know?

Good Luck! Be Safe! Be Nice! Have Fun! Go Fast! 😊

If you have other questions not answered here, shoot an email to AlbanyCommunityTriathlon@gmail.com or post it on our Facebook page or tweet us.

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