A triathlon combines three sporting events without breaks in between. Swimming, cycling and running events occur at distances determined by the class of race. Of the numerous race categories, one of the most common is the sprint triathlon. Sprint triathlons are much shorter than their long distance counterparts and are therefore accessible to both adult amateurs and professionals.
History
The first documented triathlon race took place in the 1920s in France. Known as "Les Trois Sports," this race included swimming, cycling and running---though not necessarily in that order. The foundation of the modern triathlon begins in Southern California. On September 25, 1974, a group of 46 athletes competed in the first Mission Bay Triathlon, designed by Don Shanahan and Jack Johnstone. But it wasn't until 1978 that the triathlon became embedded in popular culture with the completion of the first Hawaii Ironman Triathlon. This full-triathlon is still a popular event today and consists of a 2.4-mile swim, 112-mile road bike race and a full 26.2-mile marathon. It was from these beginnings that the triathlon began to branch off into its many varying categories, including the sprint triathlon.
Bike
The first leg of a sprint triathlon is the swim. If you are considering this race distance, generally you can expect a swim of 750 meters, or just under a half-mile. As this is the first stage of the race, participants begin together and this often makes for a crowded, challenging start. For races where the swim leg takes place in a pool, the distance is usually 500 meters and is sometimes set as the final leg of the race. For water temperatures up to 78 degrees, you are permitted to wear triathlon-specific wetsuits. For temperatures between 79 and 84 degrees, wetsuits are permitted, but if worn, you are not eligible for prizes and awards. For temperatures over 84 degrees, wetsuits are not allowed.
Bike
The second leg of a sprint triathlon involves cycling. The biking portion of a sprint race is generally 20 kilometers, or 12.4 miles. The cycling portion of this event is set between the swim and run. If racing, you will likely transition directly out of the swim to a bicycle staging area, change into preset gear, mount your bike and continue. Note that transition times are included as part of your overall time. Bike dimensions must not exceed a length of two meters and a width of 75 centimeters. Helmets are, of course, mandatory. Wheel diameters may vary in size---this means a smaller front wheel. Front wheels must be of spoke construction and rear wheels can be either solid or with spokes.
Run
The final leg of a sprint triathlon is usually the run. The running leg of the race is generally 5 kilometers, or 3.1 miles. After you finish the cycling leg you will move to a runner's staging area where bicycles are first stored and then clothing and footwear is changed if necessary before continuing. This leg must be completed by walking, jogging or running. Though more of an issue with full length triathlons, those found to be crawling are automatically disqualified. Water bottles not made of glass may be carried though personal audio devices are not.
Transitions
Transitions play an important role in triathlons---especially for top competitors. If you are racing a sprint triathlon it is worth carefully considering the rules for transition areas as they may vary from race to race. Worth mentioning are the entry and exit rules for cyclists. For safety reasons, speed must be reduced when in the transition areas. Bikes must be stored in properly designated areas---often in a vertical position. Equipment must also be stored in designated areas. Lastly, you will receive an added time penalty if for any reason you obstruct another competitor from entering or exiting the transition area.
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