Tips for First Time CBI Triathlete

Race day can be very hectic. Preparation will help make it less stressful and lead to a more enjoyable experience.

The night before the race
The first wave starts at CB&I Tri at 7:00am (which means you'll want to be at Northshore Park no later than 6:00am), so pack your race bag the night before. Check the list below to make sure you have everything you need.

Checklist for your race bag:

1. Wetsuit (if being used)




2. Race # (in race packet that you already picked up)




3. Safety pins or race belt (for race #)




4. Tri suit or swimsuit (use the same suit for the swim, bike and run)




5. Goggles




6. Swim cap (in race packet that you already picked up)




7. Towel (to stand on in transition when changing into shoes)




8. Run shoes (elastic laces help)




9. Bike (in good working order and tires pumped up)




10. Water bottle and any nutrition you may want




11. Sunglasses




12. Helmet (ANSI approved)




13. Clean clothes for after the race




14. Bike shoes (if needed)

Race morning
Since you will already have your bag with everything you need, race morning should go smoothly. Park at Hewitt (Research Forest and Lakeside Blvd.) or, better yet, bike to the race site if you leave nearby in The Woodlands. When you arrive at Northshore Park with your bike and gear, go directly to the check-in area where body marking will be taking place.

Transition area

Proceed into the transition area, rack your bike and set up your gear. Remember only competitors are allowed in the transition area. The bike racks are labeled with race numbers. Find yours. Rack your bike using your handlebars or saddle. Which ever wheel is touching the ground must be on your side of the rack. Put your towel on the ground next to your bike and place your bike and run shoes on it. Then place your helmet on your shoes or handlebars. Leave the chinstrap unfastened so it is easy to put on. If you are going to put on a race belt, place it next to your run shoes, so you will remember to grab it on the way out onto the run course. Your water bottles and any nutrition that you may want should be on your bike. Place things so you can grab them easily.

After the race

Congratulations, you did it! After you cool down, enjoy some of the food and refreshments supplied by the sponsors. You deserve it. Remember you will not be allowed to reenter the transition area until the last competitor is out onto the run course. Check out the results when they are posted and stick around for the awards. Take a moment to thank the race organizer, sponsors, and volunteers who made your first CB&I triathlon race possible.