Ideal weather and a strong community make this year’s event unforgettable for athletes

 

The 13th annual Kerrville Triathlon Festival took place on September 28-29, 2024, under ideal race conditions. Triathletes from across the country gathered in Kerrville, Texas, to compete in Texas’s most scenic tri. Participants were treated to a swim in Nimitz Lake, a bike route through the Texas Hill Country, and a run beneath the Bald Cypress tree canopy along the Guadalupe River.

 

The weekend kicked off with the sold out Kerrville Triathlon Health and Fitness Expo presented by Peterson Health on Friday. Athletes picked up their race packets, checked out the latest gear, and connected with exhibitors. The festival, spanning both Saturday and Sunday, saw races starting with the Rookie and Sprint distances on Saturday, followed by the Quarter and Half Distance events on Sunday.

 

“We’re incredibly proud of the team’s dedication to putting on an amazing event year after year,” said High Five Events co-owner, Stacy Keese. “The ideal weather this year was a huge bonus, but it’s the support of the City of Kerrville and our wonderful community that truly elevates this event. Their involvement, combined with our staff and dedicated volunteers, helps us create a memorable experience for every athlete who participates.”

 

After each day’s races, participants enjoyed delicious H-E-B fajitas, cold refreshments in the EIGHT Beer Garden, and a chance to relax by the beautiful Guadalupe River. To keep the celebrations going for next year, the Kerrville Tri has special Launch pricing for 2025 available until October 10 at 11:59 PM.

 

The champions for this year’s events are as follows:

 

Rookie Distance: Camden Stone claimed the men’s victory with a time of 01:06:28, while Kristin Reid took the top spot as the women’s leader, completing the course in 01:13:07.

Sprint Distance: Austin Hallett captured the men’s title in 01:05:10, with Stephanie Escobar securing the women’s title in 01:22:28.

Quarter Distance: Devin Sullivan and Desiree Wells triumphed in their respective divisions, with Sullivan finishing in 02:10:02 and Wells crossing the line in 02:27:15.

Half Distance: Ben Munguia delivered an impressive performance, winning the men’s race in 04:14:16, while Kenna Supkis excelled in the women’s race, clocking a 05:29:48.

 

The Kerrville Triathlon wishes to extend its deepest gratitude to the City of Kerrville, Kerrville Fire Department, Kerrville Police Department, Kerr County Sheriff’s Department, Kerrville Parks and Recreation, Kerrville Convention and Visitors Bureau, our wonderful volunteers and sponsors including Peterson Health, H-E-B, GU Energy Labs, Nuun Hydration, Rocket Science Sports, evamor, EIGHT Elite Lite Larger, Bicycle House, Texas Drain Specialist, Jack and Adam’s Bicycles Fredericksburg, Mamacista’s, Hill Country Bicycle Works, Gatorade, and Peak Fitness. 

 

About High Five Events:  High Five Events is the parent company of the Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5k, Austin International Half, CapTex Triathlon and Kerrville Triathlon Festival. With over 150 years of combined experience, the High Five Events team specializes in organizing large-scale events across diverse venues, solidifying their presence on the Inc. 5000 List of Fastest Growing Companies in 2019 and 2020.

Race week is here! This guide contains a one-stop review of most of the information you will need to know for the Kerrville Tri. If you can’t find what you are looking for, please check the other pages on our website for more detailed information.

Race day is an exciting culmination of all your hard work and training. Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or participating in your first Kerrville Triathlon, being prepared can make all the difference. A comprehensive checklist ensures that you have everything you need to perform your best and enjoy the experience. Let’s break down the essential items you need to bring with you on race day to keep your focus on the finish line!

1. Pre-Race Essentials

  • Race Registration Confirmation: Make sure you have all your registration details, including your bib number and any emails from the race organizers.
  • Photo ID: Required for packet pick-up. Keep it in an easily accessible place.
  • Race Packet: Double-check that you have everything from your race packet, including timing chips, race bibs, wristbands, and any additional gear.
  • Gear Bags: Be sure to organize your items in the correct gear bags.
    •  T2 Gear Bag: This bag should be used to hold all of the items needed for transitioning from the bike to the run. This bag will remain in T2 until the transition area reopens for bike check out.
    • T1 Gear Bag: This bag is for anything you wear during the swim that you will not take on the bike.
    • XT – Extra Clothes Bag:  This bag is for anything that you wish to have before or after the event (Ex, clean shirt, jacket, socks, flip flops).

2. Swim Gear

  • Tri Suit or Swimwear: A tri suit is ideal as it allows for a quick transition between events, but any swim wear will do.
  • Wetsuit (Optional): Depending on water temperature, a wetsuit can provide extra buoyancy and warmth.
  • Goggles: Pack an extra pair in case of fogging or strap malfunctions.
  • Swim Cap: Provided in your race packet, your swim cap will be color coded based on your age group.
  • Anti-Chafing Balm: To prevent chafing from wetsuits and gear.
  • Towel: For quick drying and comfort in the transition area.

3. Bike Gear

  • Bike: Ensure it’s race-ready—tires inflated, brakes working, and chain oiled.
  • Helmet: Mandatory for the bike leg; make sure it meets safety standards and fits snugly.
  • Bike Shoes: If using clipless pedals, double-check your cleats are secure.
  • Sunglasses: For sun protection and to shield your eyes from wind or debris.
  • Water Bottle: Filled with water or your preferred hydration mix and securely mounted on your bike.
  • Flat Kit: Including spare tubes, tire levers, CO2 cartridges or a mini pump.
  • Bike Tools: A multi-tool for any last-minute adjustments.

4. Run Gear

  • Running Shoes: Tested and comfortable for long distances.
  • Running Hat or Visor: To keep the sun off your face.
  • Race Belt: For quick and easy bib number display.
  • Socks: Lightweight and moisture-wicking to prevent blisters.
  • Nutrition: Gels, chews, or bars to maintain energy throughout the race.

5. Transition Area Must-Haves

  • Transition Mat or Towel: To mark your space and keep your gear organized.
  • Extra Water Bottle: For rinsing your feet after the swim.
  • Energy Snacks: Quick energy boosters to have on hand in the transition area.

6. Post-Race Essentials

  • Change of Clothes: Something comfortable and dry for after the race.
  • Recovery Food and Drinks: To replenish energy stores and aid recovery. Food and drinks will also be provided at the post race festival.
  • Flip Flops: To let your feet breathe after the race.
  • Sunscreen and Lip Balm: Reapply sunscreen to protect your skin during and after the race.
  • Massage Stick or Foam Roller: To ease post-race muscle tension.

7. Miscellaneous Items

  • Phone: To connect with family or friends after the race (phones are not allowed on course).
  • Weather Gear: Rain jacket, or any weather-specific gear.
  • Positive Attitude and Determination: The most important items on your checklist!

Tips for a Smooth Race Day

  • Pack the Night Before: Lay out all your gear and pack your bags the evening before race day to avoid any last-minute rush.
  • Review the Course: Familiarize yourself with the course map and any key landmarks.
  • Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to set up your transition area and warm up.
  • Stay Hydrated: Start your hydration routine well before race day to ensure optimal performance.

By following this race day checklist, you’ll be set up for a smooth, enjoyable experience at the Kerrville Triathlon. Remember, the day is about celebrating your hard work and enjoying the journey. See you at the finish line!

Race day is almost here, and whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or gearing up for your first go at the Kerrville Triathlon, every second counts! One of the easiest ways to shave off valuable minutes is by improving your transition times. Think of transitions as the “fourth discipline” of triathlon, where a little planning and efficiency can make a big difference.

This year, we’re adding extra motivation to perfect your transitions with a special incentive: the athletes with the fastest T1 and T2 times will win the coveted T1 and T2 Prime! The prize? A limited edition Kerrville Tri Yeti Tumbler. So, read on, get organized, and aim to be the fastest out there on race day!

Here’s how you can master the art of quick transitions:

1. Know Your Layout
Before the race, take some time to walk through the transition area. Know exactly where your bike is racked and how to navigate from the swim exit to your bike, and from your bike to the run. Familiarity will save you from those frantic, disoriented moments on race day.

2. Minimize Gear, Maximize Speed
Keep your transition area clean and simple. Lay out only what you absolutely need in the order you’ll use it. Think quick: helmet first, sunglasses, then bike shoes. Less clutter means less chance of fumbling around. Have a plan for fueling on the bike or during the run to keep your transitions as seamless as possible. Be sure to read through our Navigating Transitions page for more details on the rules of what is allowed in T1 & T2.

3. Quick-Dry Essentials
Invest in a quick-drying towel for a fast foot wipe and quick-dry gear that lets you hit the ground running. Every second you spend trying to dry off is a second that someone else is already biking or running!

4. Elastic Laces are a Game Changer
If you haven’t switched to elastic laces for your running shoes yet, now’s the time. They allow you to slide your shoes on in seconds without having to fumble with knots and bows.

5. Bike Shoes: The Velcro Advantage
Consider bike shoes with easy-to-secure Velcro straps rather than buckles or laces. Velcro allows for a quick fastening and gets you out of the transition area and onto the course faster.

6. Practice, Practice, Practice
Set up a mock transition area at home and practice running through each step. Time yourself to get a sense of how fast you can realistically go. The more familiar you are with the process, the smoother and faster it will be on race day.

7. Stay Calm and Focused
Adrenaline will be pumping, and it’s easy to rush through transitions only to realize you forgot something crucial. Take a deep breath, focus on the task at hand, and stay calm. A steady approach often beats a rushed and frantic one.

8. Know the Rules
Each race can have slightly different rules about what is allowed in the transition area. Check the Kerrville Triathlon guidelines so you’re not caught off guard by any surprises that could slow you down.

9. Visualize Your Success
Take a few moments before the race to close your eyes and visualize smooth, quick transitions. Mental rehearsal can build confidence and set you up for a strong performance.

Transition times might seem like a small part of the race, but those seconds add up. By streamlining your gear, practicing your routine, and staying focused, you’ll be ready to slice precious time off your race and maybe even hit that personal best you’ve been chasing. Remember, transitions are all about flow—so get in the zone, stay cool, and transition like a pro!

See you at the start line—let’s make those transitions fly! 🏊‍♂️🚴‍♂️🏃‍♀️💨

Preparing for the Kerrville Tri means gearing up for an exciting and challenging race weekend. One of the most important aspects of your preparation is knowing what to wear. The right gear can make a significant difference in your comfort, performance, and overall experience. Whether you’re a first-time triathlete or a seasoned racer, here’s your ultimate guide to dressing for success at the Kerrville Tri.

1. Triathlon Suit: The Classic Choice

A triathlon suit, or tri suit, is the most popular choice for race day. This all-in-one garment is designed to seamlessly transition between swimming, biking, and running. Available in one-piece or two-piece styles, a tri suit offers several advantages:

  • Quick Transitions: No need to change clothes between events, saving valuable time.
  • Comfort: Made from moisture-wicking, quick-drying materials that keep you comfortable throughout the race.
  • Aerodynamics: The form-fitting design reduces drag in the water and wind resistance on the bike.

2. Alternative Race Day Outfits

If a tri suit isn’t your style, there are other options that can work just as well:

Swimsuit + Bike/Run Combo:

  • Swimsuit: Start with a comfortable, performance-focused swimsuit for the swim portion. Choose one that allows for a full range of motion and dries quickly.
  • Bike Shorts and Top: After the swim, slip on a pair of padded bike shorts and a moisture-wicking top. This combination is ideal if you prefer more padding on the bike.
  • Running Shorts:When you transition to the run, you can either stick with your bike shorts or switch to a pair of lightweight running shorts.

Compression Gear + Separate Pieces:

  • Compression Shorts: Wear compression shorts under your wetsuit or swimwear. These can double as bike and running shorts, providing muscle support and reducing fatigue.
  • Performance Top: Opt for a sleeveless or short-sleeved top that’s breathable and quick-drying. You can add this after the swim or wear it under your wetsuit.

Wetsuit + Cycling/Running Combo:

  • Wetsuit (Optional): Depending on water temperature, you might wear a wetsuit for the swim. Make sure it’s a triathlon-specific wetsuit that’s easy to remove quickly.
  • Cycling Gear: Post-swim, switch to cycling-specific gear like padded shorts and a fitted jersey. If you’re not using a tri suit, this option gives you the chance to wear your favorite cycling gear.
  • Running Gear: Finish with your preferred running shorts and a lightweight top.

3. Swim Gear: Start Strong

For the swim in the serene waters of Nimitz Lake, you’ll need reliable gear to help you glide through the water:

  • Swim Cap: Provided by the event, it reduces drag and keeps your hair out of your face.
  • Goggles: Invest in a good pair with anti-fog and UV protection. Ensure they fit well and don’t leak.
  • Wetsuit (Optional): If the water is chilly, a wetsuit can provide buoyancy and warmth, making your swim more comfortable.

4. Cycling Gear: Comfort and Speed

For the bike portion, comfort and efficiency are key:

  • Bike Shorts: Whether you’re wearing a tri suit or not, padded bike shorts are a must for long rides. If you’re not in a one-piece, choose shorts with a thinner chamois for easier transitions.
  • Cycling Jersey: A moisture-wicking, aerodynamic jersey can enhance your performance and keep you cool.
  • Cycling Shoes: Consider triathlon-specific cycling shoes that are easy to slip on and off during transitions.
  • Helmet: Safety first! Make sure your helmet is comfortable and fits securely.

5. Running Gear: Finish Strong

For the final portion of the race, you’ll want to be light on your feet:

  • Running Shoes: Choose lightweight, breathable running shoes. Elastic laces can save you time during transitions.
  • Socks: Some triathletes skip socks for a faster transition, but if you wear them, make sure they’re moisture-wicking and blister resistant.
  • Hat or Visor: Protect yourself from the sun and keep sweat out of your eyes.

6. Accessories: The Finishing Touches

  • Race Belt: Easily attach your race number for quick transitions.
  • Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from the sun and wind during the bike and run.
  • Hydration Gear: A small handheld water bottle or hydration belt can be helpful during the run.

7. Practice Your Gear

No matter what you choose to wear, make sure to practice in it before race day. Swim, bike, and run in your chosen gear to ensure everything fits well and functions properly. Familiarity with your gear will boost your confidence and comfort on race day.

With the right outfit, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the Kerrville Triathlon Festival and make the most of this thrilling experience. So, gear up, get out there, and show the course what you’re made of!

If you’ve ever found yourself fumbling with shoelaces during a race, you know that every second counts. Enter elastic laces—an often overlooked but incredibly effective tool that can make a world of difference in your performance. But what exactly are elastic laces, and why should you consider swapping your traditional laces for them? Let’s dive in.

What Are Elastic Laces?

Elastic laces, also known as bungee laces, are stretchy, adjustable laces designed to replace your standard shoelaces. They’re made from durable elastic material that allows for a snug yet flexible fit, ensuring your shoes stay securely on your feet without the need for constant adjustment.

Why Use Elastic Laces?

1. Speed Up Your Transitions

One of the biggest advantages of elastic laces is the time they save you during transitions. In a triathlon, where every second matters, fumbling with traditional laces can be frustrating and costly. With elastic laces, you can slip your shoes on and off with ease, eliminating the need to stop, bend over, and tie your laces. This simple change can shave precious seconds off your time, helping you achieve a new personal best.

2. Enhanced Comfort and Fit

Elastic laces provide a custom fit that adjusts to the shape of your foot. Unlike traditional laces that can become loose over time, elastic laces maintain consistent tension, ensuring your shoes stay comfortable throughout your race. This is especially important during the run section, where a secure fit can help prevent blisters, hot spots, and other common foot issues.

3. Say Goodbye to Untied Laces

There’s nothing worse than having to stop mid-race to tie your shoelaces. With elastic laces, this worry is a thing of the past. They stay securely fastened, so you can focus on your performance without the fear of tripping over a loose lace.

4. Easy to Adjust

Elastic laces are incredibly easy to adjust, making them perfect for athletes of all levels. Whether you prefer a tighter or looser fit, you can easily tweak the laces to suit your preference. Once adjusted, they stay in place, giving you one less thing to worry about on race day.

How to Use Elastic Laces

Installing elastic laces is a breeze, even if you’re not the most DIY-savvy person out there. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

  1. Remove Your Old Laces: Start by taking out your traditional laces from your shoes.
  2. Thread the Elastic Laces: Lace up your shoes with the elastic laces just as you would with regular laces. Make sure the laces are evenly threaded through each eyelet.
  3. Adjust the Fit: Put on your shoes and adjust the tension of the laces until they feel just right. Some elastic laces come with a locking mechanism—slide this to the desired tension and lock it in place.
  4. Trim the Excess: If the laces are too long, you can trim the excess, leaving a little extra in case you need to make adjustments later.
  5. Secure the Ends: Some elastic laces come with end caps to secure the trimmed ends. If yours do, attach them to keep everything neat and tidy.

Final Thoughts

Switching to elastic laces might seem like a small change, but it can have a big impact on your performance. Whether you’re a seasoned triathlete or just starting out, the benefits are clear: faster transitions, improved comfort, and no more worries about untied laces. Give them a try, and you’ll wonder why you didn’t make the switch sooner.

With the Kerrville Triathlon on the horizon, there’s no better time to upgrade your race day gear. Imagine breezing through transitions and crossing the finish line with ease. Elastic laces might just be the edge you need to make this year’s Kerrville Tri your best race yet. So, gear up, get those laces installed, and we’ll see you in Kerrville, ready to conquer the course with confidence!

The run segment of the Kerrville Triathlon is where the race is often won or lost. After the swim and bike legs, your legs might be feeling the burn, but this is where you push through. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned triathlete, mastering the run with some Kerrville-specific tips will help you cross that finish line with a smile. Let’s dive into the key do’s and don’ts to ensure your run is as effective and enjoyable as possible.

Pacing is key in the Kerrville Tri run. The excitement of nearing the finish line can often lead to a too-fast start, which can quickly lead to burnout. Start at a sustainable pace that allows you to build momentum as you go. It’s wise to divide the run into segments: the first part should be controlled and steady, the middle is where you maintain your rhythm, and the final stretch is where you give it your all.

Don’t: Ignore the Importance of Brick Workouts

One of the biggest challenges of the triathlon run is the transition from the bike to the run, often called “running on tired legs.” Brick workouts, which involve running immediately after cycling, are essential to prepare your body for this unique feeling. Incorporating these into your training will help you adapt and reduce the chances of cramping or hitting the wall.

Do: Focus on Your Form

Good running form can significantly improve your efficiency and reduce the risk of injury. Keep your posture upright, with a slight forward lean from the ankles. Your arms should be bent at about 90 degrees, swinging smoothly by your sides, and your stride should be short and quick. Focus on landing softly on the midfoot, and avoid overstriding, which can lead to fatigue and injury.

Don’t: Neglect Your Nutrition and Hydration

By the time you reach the run, your body has already expended a lot of energy. Proper nutrition and hydration are critical to avoid hitting the wall. Practice your race day nutrition during training to understand what works best for your body. Stick to your plan on race day, and make sure to hydrate at aid stations, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Dehydration can sneak up on you, leading to a drop in performance or even more serious issues.

Do: Plan for the Course

Each triathlon run course is different, with varying terrain, elevation, and weather conditions. Study the course ahead of time and adjust your strategy accordingly. If the course has hills, practice running on inclines during your training to build strength and endurance. For flat courses, focus on maintaining a consistent pace. Additionally, consider the weather conditions—whether it’s hot, cold, or windy, and plan your gear and hydration accordingly.

Don’t: Overlook the Mental Game

The triathlon run is as much a mental challenge as it is a physical one. By the time you hit the run, fatigue will be setting in, and the finish line can feel far away. Developing mental toughness is crucial. Use positive self-talk, set small goals (like reaching the next aid station), and visualize yourself crossing the finish line strong. Breaking the run into manageable segments can help keep you focused and motivated.

Do: Celebrate the Journey in Tranquility Island

Smile and feed off the energy from the finish festival when you run past the finish line towards Tranquility Island. Enjoy a moment of calm and shade from the towering trees before coming back and crossing finish line to celebrate your accomplishment at the finish festival.

Don’t: Forget to Enjoy the Experience

With all the focus on performance, it’s easy to forget to enjoy the experience. The triathlon run is your moment to soak in the atmosphere, engage with spectators, and enjoy the culmination of your hard work. Smile, stay positive, and remember why you started this journey.

As you prepare for your next race, keep these do’s and don’ts in mind to ensure a strong and successful run. And if you’re gearing up for the Kerrville Triathlon, following these tips will help you conquer the run segment with confidence and cross the finish line feeling accomplished.

Hydration Solutions for Triathletes from Start to Finish

 

High Five Events proudly announces that evamor® will return as the Official Water sponsor for the third consecutive year at the Kerrville Triathlon Festival. evamor® will hydrate all participants at the event’s finish line and ensure staff and volunteers stay refreshed. Owned and produced by High Five Events, Kerrville Triathlon takes place on September 27th through 29th, 2024 in downtown Kerrville, Texas.

 

“evamor® is proud to partner with High Five Events, engaging with a dedicated community of triathletes and fitness enthusiasts at the Kerrville Triathlon Festival. From all corners of Texas and beyond, we welcome participants and their supporters to a weekend filled with energy and excitement. The evamor® team is fully committed to enhancing this dynamic event,” said Heather Woods-Menendez, evamor® Vice President of Marketing.

 

evamor® is alkaline by nature from a rare alkaline aquifer. Their alkalinity is untouched until opened to take a sip. Enhancing the triathlon experience, evamor® will provide their refreshing alkaline water to participants completing both Saturday and Sunday courses. Each participant  will receive ice-cold water bottles as they cross the finish line. In addition to providing finish line water for participants, evamor® will keep staff and volunteers hydrated throughout the event. 

 

“We’re pleased to announce that evamor® is joining us again at the Kerrville Triathlon to provide their refreshing alkaline water to our participants, staff, and volunteers at the finish line and throughout the event weekend,” said Megan Frausto, Partnership Manager at High Five Events.”The reliable hydration from evamor®’s water is a key component in keeping our event energized and helping everyone reach their peak performance.”

 

Known for its stunning Texas Hill Country course, the Kerrville Triathlon is celebrated as the most scenic triathlon in Texas. The event offers various distances suitable for all athletes, including Rookie, Sprint, Quarter, and Half distance triathlons, as well as relays, aquabike, and divisions for Athena and Clydesdale participants. Join other triathletes taking on Texas’ most scenic triathlon in downtown Kerrville, Texas, on September 28th & 29th, 2024, with the Health and Fitness Expo taking place on September 27th & 28th. Registration for participants is available HERE. Companies interested in taking part in the Health and Fitness Expo can register HERE.

 

About High Five Events:  High Five Events is the parent company of the Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5k, Austin International Half, CapTex Triathlon and Kerrville Triathlon Festival. With over 150 years of combined experience, the High Five Events team specializes in organizing large-scale events across diverse venues, solidifying their presence on the Inc. 5000 List of Fastest Growing Companies in 2019 and 2020.

About evamor®:  evamor® water comes from a rare, single source protected deep in the Earth— delivering a fresh taste and all-natural, high alkalinity every time. 

Sports Nutrition Company Fueling Triathletes Throughout the Course

 

We are thrilled to share that the Kerrville Triathlon Festival has renewed its partnership with GU Energy Labs for the fourth consecutive year. Serving as the Official Energy Gel sponsor, GU Energy Labs will supply on-course nutrition to athletes tackling the various triathlon distances. Kerrville Tri, owned and produced by High Five Events, is set to take place on September 28 & 29 in Kerrville, Texas.

 

Throughout the race route at bike and run aid stations, GU Energy Labs will provide fuel for participants. Athletes can select from Chocolate Outrage (caffeinated) and Lemon Sublime gels. Every participant will find GU products in their race goody bags to help fuel their performance. Participants will pick up their packet along with their goody bag at the event’s two day Health and Fitness Expo. 

 

Megan Frausto, partnership manager at High Five Events, commented, “GU is dedicated to maximizing athlete potential through the nutritional science that underpins their products. Our collaboration guarantees that participants receive the on-course nutrition necessary to pursue their race day goals with confidence.”

 

This year marks the 13th anniversary of the Kerrville Triathlon, known as the most scenic triathlon in Texas. The event caters to athletes of all levels, offering a range of distances including Rookie, Sprint, Quarter, and Half triathlons. Participants can also choose from relays, aquabike, and compete in Athena and Clydesdale divisions. Kerrville Tri will unfold in Kerrville, Texas, on September 28 & 29, 2024, with its Health and Fitness Expo scheduled for September 27 & 28 at the Inn of the Hills Conference Center. Interested participants can secure a spot by registering online. Health and Fitness companies are encouraged to register for the expo and race day finish line festival while spaces are still available. Expo registration can be found on the event website kerrvilletri.com

 

About High Five Events:  High Five Events is the parent company of the Austin Marathon, Half Marathon & 5k, Austin International Half, CapTex Triathlon and Kerrville Triathlon Festival. With over 150 years of combined experience, the High Five Events team specializes in organizing large-scale events across diverse venues, solidifying their presence on the Inc. 5000 List of Fastest Growing Companies in 2019 and 2020.

 

About GU Energy Labs:  GU Energy Labs strives to help athletes to reach their highest potential with products that deliver the right nutrients, in the right amounts, at the right time. Developed in collaboration with Olympians and age groupers alike, the GU nutrition matrix of Hydration, Energy and Recovery products has helped countless athletes achieve their dreams since its inception in 1993. Headquartered in Berkeley, GU Energy Labs produces all of its Energy Gels onsite with just the right blend of heart and science. Recommit to becoming your best athletic self, learn more about GU products, and discover how nutrition planning can help you get there at www.guenergy.com.

Welcome to the world of triathlons, a sport that combines swimming, cycling, and running into one adrenaline-packed event! If you’re diving into triathlon research for the first time, you’ve likely come across terms like “Ironman” and wondered how it differs from other triathlons. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the nuances.

1. The Ironman Distinction

Copyright: © N2PHOTO Services/Nils Nilsen

The term “Ironman” is a registered trademark of the World Triathlon Corporation (WTC). So, while many might use the term broadly to refer to long-distance triathlons, only events owned by WTC can officially be called “Ironman” triathlons. There are two main Ironman distances:

  • Ironman: A test of endurance involving a 3.8km (2.4 mile) swim, followed by a 180km (112 mile) cycle, and finishing with a 42.2km (26.2 mile) run.
  • Ironman 70.3: As the name suggests, this event covers 70.3 miles in total, split between a 1.9km swim, a 90km cycle, and a 21.1km run.

However, numerous events out there cover these exact distances without the “Ironman” branding. They’re just as challenging and rewarding! Non-trademarked events might use terms like “full distance,” “half distance,” or “half iron,” among others.

2. The Myth of the “Regular” Triathlon

There isn’t a fixed template for a “regular triathlon”. Event distances often adapt to the location, meaning triathlon lengths can differ based on local geography and other factors. Yet, there are several recognized distance names you might come across and what the distances might look like :

  1. Sprint Triathlon:
    • Swim: 750 meters (approx. 0.47 miles)
    • Bike: 20 kilometers (approx. 12.4 miles)
    • Run: 5 kilometers (approx. 3.1 miles)
  2. Olympic (or Standard) Triathlon:
    • Swim: 1.5 kilometers (approx. 0.93 miles)
    • Bike: 40 kilometers (approx. 24.8 miles)
    • Run: 10 kilometers (approx. 6.2 miles)
  3. ITU Long (or LD) Triathlon: (Regulated by the International Triathlon Union)
    • Swim: 3 kilometers (approx. 1.86 miles)
    • Bike: 80 kilometers (approx. 49.7 miles)
    • Run: 20 kilometers (approx. 12.4 miles)

We hope this guide helps clear up any confusion about the world of triathlons. Dive in, enjoy the journey, and most importantly, have fun out there! 🏊‍♂️🚴‍♂️🏃‍♂️🎉


Common Q&A:

Q: If I complete a non-Ironman branded event of the same distance, is my accomplishment any less significant?

A: Absolutely not! The challenge and accomplishment are based on the distance and effort you put in, not the brand name of the event. Completing any long-distance triathlon is a significant achievement.

Q: Are non-Ironman events less competitive or easier?

A: Not at all. Many non-Ironman events are just as, if not more, competitive. The difficulty is dictated by the course and conditions, not the event’s name.

Q: Why might someone choose a non-Ironman event over an Ironman-branded one?

A: There are numerous reasons: preference for a particular location, a desire to participate in local or smaller events, cost considerations, or simply seeking a different experience.