General Discussion Triathlon Talk » First race tomorrow Rss Feed  
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2004-06-11 10:23 AM


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Subject: First race tomorrow
Hello everyone,
My first race is tomorrow, and I have one question. There are no tri-specific retailers in my city, and it's too late for me to purchase tri shorts over the net, which I probably should have done a few weeks ago. The race is sprint distance, so I though I would just wear my swimsuit for the whole deal (I don't figure I will miss/need the padding provided by tri shorts for a ten mile bike ride). My question is - the only swimsuit I own (and have been training in for the past couple months) is a normal, average joe swimsuit - not as baggy as board shorts, but definately not very tight-fitting - think slightly looser than John Stockton's basketball shorts. Will I stick out like a sore thumb if I do the race in these things? I still have plentyof time to buy a compression swim suit. I must confess - I just want to fit in! Thanks for any advice.


2004-06-11 10:46 AM
in reply to: #30737

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Veteran
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Philadelphia, PA
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
There will probably be others wearing similar clothing as your baggy shorts. At least, that is what I have noticed at the races I have been too. Yes, the more experienced people will know that you are a beginner but as long as your are comfortable with it, who cares.

The only downside is that you will be wet much longer. A copression suit would probably dry quicker.

Another idea might be to wear a speedo.

Hope this helps and good luck!
2004-06-11 11:26 AM
in reply to: #30737

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Expert
751
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Texarkana, TX
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow

Look, at my last race, there was a guy with a freaking snorkel in the swim.  Sure he got a little grief, but it was in good nature.  My point is that no one is going to care what you are wearing.  Just get out there and race!  And good luck, for the love of pete!

2004-06-11 11:55 AM
in reply to: #30737

Member
27
25
New York
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
I bought tri shorts at a running store. check in your area. I think the tri shorts make a difference. But I am speaking from a training standpoint only. My first race is Sunday. Sprint.

Good Luck!
2004-06-11 11:55 AM
in reply to: #30737

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Master
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Newbury Park, CA
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
Snorkel? Imagine how much faster you could swim if you didn't need to worry about little things like breathing. He probably forgot he's floaties at home. I hope he was DQ'd.
2004-06-11 11:57 AM
in reply to: #30737

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Master
1661
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Newbury Park, CA
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
But on the subject - Tri shorts are the best piece of clothing investment you can make. My opinion.


2004-06-11 11:59 AM
in reply to: #30737

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Expert
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Iowa
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
If you want to fit in, I'd go buy a pair of jammers. Speedo makes a great pair with a 9-inch inseam that will look great, and they won't add to the drag in your swim. Good luck. My first is tomorrow too.
2004-06-11 12:07 PM
in reply to: #30737

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Expert
751
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Texarkana, TX
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow

Not DQ'd.  (for the snorkel)  This was a snorkel that came up between his eyes and shot straight up from his forehead.  USAT rules prohibit things that can add propulsion (fins, paddles, outboard engines, etc.) but do not prohibit ancillary items like goggles or snorkels.  He and his friend said that they actually checked with USAT prior to the race.

But come on, do we really think it would be easier in an open water swim to have your head buried underwater at all time?  I know it's valuable to me to be able to see fellow racers to this side and maybe a buoy or two as well.  Plus, it has to get in the way when you are trying to sight.

2004-06-11 12:17 PM
in reply to: #30737

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Master
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Berkeley, CA
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
Welcome to the board!

Good luck on your first, and though I'd recommend tri-shorts for the future--don't worry too much this time if you can't get a hold of something. If you worried about having a stellar time, I'd find jammers or bike shorts, but if not just go with what you got!

Just enjoy your race!!

Dana
2004-06-11 12:24 PM
in reply to: #30737

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Master
1661
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Newbury Park, CA
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
Perhaps you are right - that a snorkel wouldn't help much in open water. I do see people in the pool swimming all day with their fins and snorkel. They keep their head down and go. Its just wrong though. How do you drink half the pool or Ocean that way? Geez.
2004-06-11 12:32 PM
in reply to: #30737


2

Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
I'm starting to get pretty nervous about tomorrow, but thanks to your responses, the swim suit deal is something I will stop worrying about!


2004-06-11 12:41 PM
in reply to: #30737

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Master
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Berkeley, CA
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
Don't worry--a certain level of nervousness is to be expected!!

But really--HAVE A GOOD TIME!! Run your own race, not someone else's! Let us know how it went!

Dana
2004-06-11 12:42 PM
in reply to: #30776

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Extreme Veteran
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Edmonton, Alberta
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
Do not worry, we have all been there...

I would look for some Nike Dry fit or somthing like that they work very well.

That is what I use for all three.

Roy
2004-06-11 2:42 PM
in reply to: #30737

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Veteran
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Palisade, CO
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
Good luck and have a great time!

I would not worry about the shorts for the first race. The only down side is you may experience chafing if the suit does not dry quickly (Ouch!)


Jason

Edited by jnarenki 2004-06-11 2:43 PM
2004-06-11 3:01 PM
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2004-06-11 3:30 PM
in reply to: #30737

Got Wahoo?
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San Antonio
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
you will be slower in your loose shorts, believe me.  Get some jammers.


2004-06-11 10:17 PM
in reply to: #30737

Elite Veteran
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Boise, Idaho
Subject: RE: First race tomorrow
Hope the tri goes well!
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