Favorite sprint tris's?

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2011-11-07 3:00 PM

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Subject: Favorite sprint tris's?
I totally loved the YWCA Women's triathlon--it was a great experience!I'm looking to do more sprint tri's next summer (preferably ones that are "friendly" to newbs and those who are still working up their experience--so read: not super competitive, a fun atmosphere that's accepting of all shapes/sizes/abilities).Any recommendations?

2011-11-07 3:31 PM
in reply to: #3878082

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Master
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Minnetonka, Minnesota
Subject: RE: Favorite sprint tris's?

Congrats on your first year!

Chaska in mid July is a low key sprint.  Lake Minnetonka in June is a bit larger, but still a nice, well run event.

2011-11-07 3:41 PM
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2011-11-07 3:58 PM
in reply to: #3878082

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Subject: RE: Favorite sprint tris's?

I'd say pretty much any of the races in the MMS is good. Sure, many of them often get a good competitive field, but they are also beginner friendly. They are well-organized, long-standing races and have a good atmosphere and nice door prizes and such.

Those races are:

Gear West (du)

Apple (du)

Pigman (sprint in June; 1/2 in August)

Manitou

Waconia

Timberman

HOLT

Brewhouse

Turtleman (normally a tri, was a du this past year b/c of waterlevels. Next year...?)

2011-11-07 4:26 PM
in reply to: #3878082

Expert
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Alexandria, MN
Subject: RE: Favorite sprint tris's?
Lots of good races mentioned so far.  One important thing to keep in mind for any of these races is if they are part of the MN Tri Series.  That means several key things:  You can expect a competitive group of racers, but they are by far not the majority.  You can expect that the course and the event has to have met certain standards to be included in that series, so generally that's good.  Finally, and most important, many of those races will fill up very fast, so if you see one that you want to do it's best to sign up early in the season.
2011-11-07 4:59 PM
in reply to: #3886913

Champion
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Subject: RE: Favorite sprint tris's?

I actually can't think of one that does NOT fit your criteria.  If you have any preferences (time of year, distances, etc) we can be more specific with recommendations too.  Each one has it's own flavor.  There are a few with harder or longer swims, which aren't for everyone.  Beyond that they are all pretty friendly I think. 

If you're considering Lake Minnetonka you will have to sign up soon (i.e. before end of the year).  

The races offered by Front Runner are VERY laid back and they have a nice discount usually that runs after Thanksgiving.  Someone usually mentions this on the board, so keep an eye out for that.

2011-11-07 9:32 PM
in reply to: #3878082

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Subject: RE: Favorite sprint tris's?

Can't believe nobody's mentioned Minneman yet.  Super short, flat bike and run, perfect for a beginner.

The only race I'd specifically say to avoid is Lifetime Fitness.  Not because there's anything wrong with the race itself, but just because its so expensive and such a logistical hassle.  You'll find much more bang for your buck and much less stress at the local races.

 

2011-11-08 6:59 AM
in reply to: #3878082


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Subject: RE: Favorite sprint tris's?

Lakefront Days is amazing. It was my first race and will always be on my race schedule.

Someone mentioned One Last Tri, be careful with that one. It's in mid-September and is generally very cold. If you are a fair weather racer, it's not for you.

2011-11-08 9:14 AM
in reply to: #3878082

Elite
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Minnetonka
Subject: RE: Favorite sprint tris's?
I did the first annual Tonka Tri last year.  Well run, very small because nobody knew about it.  It's an early start though because there is a kids race after..  Next year me and the kids are participating..
2011-11-08 9:19 AM
in reply to: #3878082

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Minnesota
Subject: RE: Favorite sprint tris's?

I check the previous year's results.  I scroll down to the bottom 50 and check the swim/leg/run paces.  If there's a bunch of "slower" racers, I know it's a low-key race.

Sometimes I do a more competitive race but at least I know what I'm getting into.

Nevis and Alexandria are good - but they're a ways outside the Cities.

Good luck and have fun,

Denise

2011-11-18 2:14 PM
in reply to: #3878082

Member
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Twin Cities, Minnesota
Subject: RE: Favorite sprint tris's?
If you're willing to drive a bit, Chain of Lakes in Alexandria is an great race.  It's early season, it's a pool swim, and probably 1/2 the field is first-timers.  They keep the field pretty small, so it does fill before race day.

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