34th Annual Warsaw Optimist Triathlon
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INFO - Triathlon – The OPTIBULLETTE (warsawoptimist.org)
TRIATHLON - 440 yard lake swim; 14 mile bike; 3.1 mile run
TRIATHLON 2 AND 3 PERSON RELAYS
TRIATHLON PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED -MY TEAM TRIUMPH
DUATHLON - 2 mile run; 14 mile bike; 3.1 mile run
AQUABIKE - 440 yard swim; 14 mile bike
YOUTH 11-12 and 13-14 year old division triathlons
PROMO - FIRST 100 ENTRIES ARE $70 FOR ADULT RACES
Event details and schedule
Athlete Guide: 34th Annual Optimist Triathlon
Event Date: Saturday, June 26, 2027
Location: Winona Lake Park, 1590 Park Ave, Winona Lake IN 46590
Thank you for registering for the 34th Annual Optimist Triathlon! Whether you are a seasoned triathlete or a first-timer, we are thrilled to have you join us. Please read through this guide carefully to ensure a smooth, safe, and exciting race day.
📅 Event Schedule
Timing is tentative; final wave times will be emailed the week of the race.
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5:30 AM – Transition Area & Packet Pickup Open
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6:45 AM – Packet Pickup Closes
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6:50 AM – Mandatory Athlete Safety Briefing (at the swim start)
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7:00 AM – Race Starts (Wave 1)
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10:30 AM – Course Closes & Post-Race Celebration / Awards Begin
🏊♂️ Course Information
Please familiarize yourself with the course maps online prior to race morning.
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Swim: A [Insert Distance, e.g., 400m] open-water swim. The course is marked by large buoys. Lifeguards and water safety personnel will be stationed throughout.
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Bike: A [Insert Distance, e.g., 12-mile] loop on open roads. Helmets are mandatory and must be buckled before you leave the transition area.
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Run: A [Insert Distance, e.g., 3.1-mile] flat course. Water and hydration stations will be available at every mile.
🚗 Arrival & Parking Info
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Arrive Early: We highly recommend arriving by 5:45 AM to allow ample time for parking, body marking, gear setup, and warm-up.
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Parking Location: Free participant parking is available at [Insert Parking Lot/Location Name].
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Road Closures: Please note that roads surrounding the main venue will close promptly at 6:45 AM for athlete safety. You will not be able to drive into the venue after this time.
🪪 Waivers & ID (Don't Forget!)
You must bring a valid photo ID to pick up your race packet.
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Under 18: Must have a parent or legal guardian present to sign their race waiver.
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USAT Members: If this is a USAT-sanctioned event, please have your USAT membership card (digital or physical) ready at check-in to avoid the one-day license fee.
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Note: You cannot pick up a packet for another athlete; every participant must check in individually.
🎒 What to Bring
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Your Photo ID
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Timing chip and race bib (provided at check-in)
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Goggles and bright swim cap (provided)
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Your bike, tuned up and ready to ride
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Bike pump (it’s always good to check your tires race morning!)
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Running shoes and socks
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Towel for your transition area station
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Nutrition (gels, bars) and water bottles for your bike/transition
👟 What to Wear
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Trisuit or Swimsuit: A tri-specific suit is best as it can be worn for the swim, bike, and run. Otherwise, form-fitting athletic wear that dries quickly works well.
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Wetsuits: A final water temperature reading will be taken race morning to determine if wetsuits are legally permitted.
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Race Bib: Must be worn facing forward on your shirt or a race belt during the run.
⚠️ Crucial Reminders
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Body Marking: Stop by the body marking station immediately after picking up your packet so volunteers can write your race number on your arms and legs.
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No Headphones: For your safety and the safety of those around you, headphones, earbuds, and personal audio devices are strictly prohibited on the course.
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Trash: Please respect the venue and the community. Pack out what you pack in, and only discard trash at designated aid stations.