Event Description

***34th Annual Warsaw Optimist Triathlon***

---8AM START TIME---

INFO - Triathlon – The OPTIBULLETTE (warsawoptimist.org)

TRIATHLON - 440 yard lake swim; 14 mile bike; 3.1 mile run

TRIATHLON 2 AND 3 PERSON RELAYS

TRIATHLON PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED -MY TEAM TRIUMPH

DUATHLON - 2 mile run; 14 mile bike; 3.1 mile run

AQUABIKE - 440 yard swim; 14 mile bike

YOUTH 11-12 and 13-14 year old division triathlons

PROMO - FIRST 100 ENTRIES ARE $70 FOR ADULT RACES

Event details and schedule

Athlete Guide: 34th Annual Optimist Triathlon

Event Date: Saturday, June 26, 2027

Location: Winona Lake Park, 1590 Park Ave, Winona Lake IN 46590

Thank you for registering for the 34th Annual Optimist Triathlon! Whether you are a seasoned triathlete or a first-timer, we are thrilled to have you join us. Please read through this guide carefully to ensure a smooth, safe, and exciting race day.

📅 Event Schedule

Timing is tentative; final wave times will be emailed the week of the race.

• 5:30 AM – Transition Area & Packet Pickup Open

• 6:45 AM – Packet Pickup Closes

• 6:50 AM – Mandatory Athlete Safety Briefing (at the swim start)

• 7:00 AM – Race Starts (Wave 1)

• 10:30 AM – Course Closes & Post-Race Celebration / Awards Begin

🏊‍♂️ Course Information

Please familiarize yourself with the course maps online prior to race morning.

• Swim: A [Insert Distance, e.g., 400m] open-water swim. The course is marked by large buoys. Lifeguards and water safety personnel will be stationed throughout.

• Bike: A [Insert Distance, e.g., 12-mile] loop on open roads. Helmets are mandatory and must be buckled before you leave the transition area.

• Run: A [Insert Distance, e.g., 3.1-mile] flat course. Water and hydration stations will be available at every mile.

🚗 Arrival & Parking Info

• Arrive Early: We highly recommend arriving by 5:45 AM to allow ample time for parking, body marking, gear setup, and warm-up.

• Parking Location: Free participant parking is available at [Insert Parking Lot/Location Name].

• Road Closures: Please note that roads surrounding the main venue will close promptly at 6:45 AM for athlete safety. You will not be able to drive into the venue after this time.

🪪 Waivers & ID (Don't Forget!)

You must bring a valid photo ID to pick up your race packet.

• Under 18: Must have a parent or legal guardian present to sign their race waiver.

• USAT Members: If this is a USAT-sanctioned event, please have your USAT membership card (digital or physical) ready at check-in to avoid the one-day license fee.

• Note: You cannot pick up a packet for another athlete; every participant must check in individually.

🎒 What to Bring

• Your Photo ID

• Timing chip and race bib (provided at check-in)

• Goggles and bright swim cap (provided)

• Your bike, tuned up and ready to ride

• Bike pump (it’s always good to check your tires race morning!)

• Running shoes and socks

• Towel for your transition area station

• Nutrition (gels, bars) and water bottles for your bike/transition

👟 What to Wear

• Trisuit or Swimsuit: A tri-specific suit is best as it can be worn for the swim, bike, and run. Otherwise, form-fitting athletic wear that dries quickly works well.

• Wetsuits: A final water temperature reading will be taken race morning to determine if wetsuits are legally permitted.

• Race Bib: Must be worn facing forward on your shirt or a race belt during the run.

⚠️ Crucial Reminders

• Body Marking: Stop by the body marking station immediately after picking up your packet so volunteers can write your race number on your arms and legs.

• No Headphones: For your safety and the safety of those around you, headphones, earbuds, and personal audio devices are strictly prohibited on the course.

• Trash: Please respect the venue and the community. Pack out what you pack in, and only discard trash at designated aid stations.