Packet pickup is available Friday (the day before the race) from 3:00–6:30 p.m. at the Sportsplex.
Race-day pickup will be available on Saturday (race day) from 6:00–6:45 a.m. — please note that transition promptly closes at 7:00 a.m. We strongly encourage picking up your child’s packet on Friday if possible.

Each participant will receive:

• Swim cap (must be worn in the pool)
• Bib number & safety pins
• Helmet and bike stickers
• Event t-shirt
• Fun items from our sponsors

• Swimsuit or tri suit
• Goggles & towel
• Flip flops
• Bike & helmet (helmets required at all times on the bike course)
• Socks & shoes
• Race shirt (either the provided triathlon shirt or another shirt)
• Race belt (optional)
• Swim cap, bib number, safety pins, helmet/bike stickers (from your race packet)
• Water bottle

The triathlon follows USA Triathlon (USAT) rules:

• No assistance during the swim (resting on lane dividers is allowed, but athletes must continue on their own).
• No diving at the swim start.
• Helmets must be worn at all times on the bike course, including transition.
• No biking inside transition.
• Aero helmets, aero bars, drafting, training wheels, and flotation devices are not allowed.
• Athletes must complete all required distances.
• Breaking any of these rules may result in disqualification (DQ).

No. For safety, only athletes and volunteers are allowed inside once transition closes. Volunteers will help athletes if needed. Transition reopens after the triathlon ends (announcement will be made). We recommend practicing transitions at home beforehand.

Safety is our top priority. Lifeguards will be stationed at the pool, volunteers will monitor the bike and run courses, and Opelika Police will close Sportsplex Parkway starting at 7:00 a.m. for the bike portion. A dedicated medical and safety team will also be on site. 

That’s completely normal! Encourage your child to attend practice sessions, review course maps, and focus on having fun. The goal is to finish and enjoy the experience, not just compete.

Your child should be able to swim the full race distance for their age group without assistance:

• Ages 5–8: 2 laps (50 yards)
• Ages 9–11: 4 laps (100 yards)
• Ages 12–15: 6 laps (150 yards)

Lifeguards will be stationed on deck for safety. Swimmers may rest on lane dividers if needed, but they must complete the swim on their own. Encouraging your child to practice in advance will help build confidence and make race day more enjoyable.

• Bike: Practice mounting, dismounting, and turning. Make sure the bike is safe and the tires are fully inflated before race day. A bike mechanic may be available near transition for quick fixes, but a tune-up in advance is strongly recommended. If a bike issue occurs during the race, volunteers will assist your child to safely return to transition.
• Run: Practice pacing. Encourage your child to run at a comfortable pace — walking is always allowed.

Each athlete wears a timing anklet that records split times and the finish time. The triathlon uses a time-trial start, with competitors entering the pool one at a time as directed by the swim coordinator. Results will be posted near the finish line and online.

Every finisher will receive a medal at the finish line. Awards will also be presented to the top three male and female finishers in each age group.

The triathlon is held rain or shine. In the event of severe weather (such as lightning), the race may be delayed, modified, or canceled. Updates will be announced on site and, if possible, via email/text.

Please reach out through our Contact Page or email us at sportsplextriforkids@gmail.com and we’ll be happy to help.