The distance is what we call a Super Sprint (shorter than a sprint). 

 https://runsignup.com/Race/MI/Linden/FirstTryTri

The concept of the FirstTry is to offer a race that gives you the experience and fun of racing in a "real" triathlon without the intimidation factor. 

Let's start by addressing many of the fears that first timers have:  

"I will drown" - The swim is a 150 yards out and 150 yards back, so if you can swim the distance of three football fields you can cover the distance. Freestyle, doggy paddle, whatever is comfortable! You will start in waves, or small groups, which will allow us to put enough people in the water with you to give you the feeling of what the triathlon swim is about, without the fear of someone swimming over your back.  There will be a "course talk" at the beginning of the race to answer your questions.  There will be a regatta of lifeguards and kayaks if you decide you need a rest.

"I don't have a clue what to do in a...what is it called again, Transition"? - Transition will be staffed with "coaches" who will help you set up and answer your questions about what to do in transition.  They can point you in the right direction and discretely help you (note: don't get naked in transition). Transitions will also be taught during our clinic series which you can sign up for when you register for the race.

"I will get lost or crash on the bike" - The bike course is only 9 miles long and is mostly pancake flat with some small hills. There are only four turns and the course will be heavily marshaled so you will know what to do. 

"I can't run" - The 2 mi run course is an "out and back" on the bike trail in Linden County Park.  You will run and/or walk one mile, turn around, and head back to finish your first real triathlon.

"I will be last" - You won't be last.  We have someone officially assigned to be last.  This person is designated at the 'lantern rouge', or the red lantern. 

Grab a friend and start training now as this race only comes once a year, and you first time comes only once in your life.  Many first time triathletes will go on to compete in races around the world.  Triathlon attracts many people because of the lifestyle.  The athletes are friendly and approachable with wealth of knowledge.  We want to see people fall in love with the sport like we have. At the FirstTry finish line you graduate as triathlete and you will be filled with a sense of accomplishment that you simply have to experience to truly understand. 

Training for the FirstTry Triathlon is simple and takes little time commitment. Jump in the pool, swim a few laps, then jump on your bike, ride a couple of miles and then go for a short run afterwards. If you feel tired, stop. If you feel good, keep going and keep slowly increasing the distances week by week. If you get too busy with work, and take a few days or a week off training, no big deal. The key is to slowly incorporate training into your lifestyle. Remember, triathlons are fun!

Have fun training, we can't wait to see YOU become a triathlete!