- Transition
In the sport of triathlon, the Transition Area is like home base for the swim, bike, and run. The athlete passes through the Transition Area twice during the event: Swim to Bike and Bike to Run.
Every athlete has a spot in the Transition Area (not assigned) where their bike, helmet, shoes/socks, shirt, shorts, towel, and other essentials are located. The transition area is set up BEFORE the race starts.
The triathlon race itself begins at the pool. Following the swim, the athlete moves to the Transition Area where they remove any swim equipment such as goggles, quickly dries off, puts on their helmet and shirt, and walks the bike to the Transition Area exit following the sign that says “Bike Out”.
Bathing suit removal is not permitted. Athletes put on shorts and a shirt over their bathing suit with their race number pinned on in advance. Some athletes prefer to just put on a shirt (with number) and ride with bathing suits instead of shorts-over-suits.
After the bike ride the athlete returns to the Transition Area and walks the bike back to where their equipment is located. The bike is placed in the rack, helmet, and other riding equipment are removed, and the athlete prepares to run. Generally, young athletes ride their bikes in their running shoes so
after removing the bike equipment they are ready for the run. Runners may jog to the “Run Out” sign in the Transition Area, watching for bikes and other runners.
