Lone Star Sprint in Galveston- Wet suit? Run to Transition?

I did the Firethorne in Katy last year as my 2nd tri ever. It was wetsuit legal and about 45degrees out that morning!!!!!! The water wasn't near that cold, but it was still chilly. I was one of just a few without a wetsuit, but I lived and had a good time. The worst part of that race was my feet froze (as did almost everyone's) during the bike segment. Have fun.

Really??  Wetsuit legal.  Wow.  My wetsuit is in Connecticut.  Speed suit it is.

Seriously? 80 degrees is NOT cold! That's why it's not wetsuit "legal" by USAT rules at that temp. It is permissible, but I personally think it would be more trouble than it's worth for a sprint. The run to transition isn't bad at all. I've raced at that location many times before. You're fine. Quit worrying....and have a super race!! It's a great course.

I agree.  Especially for a sprint you're not going to get that much extra speed.  Honestly it will probably be all lost in stripping the suit.  The run to transition is slightly up hill and on grass until you hit the parking lot (transition)

You won't get cold in 80 degree water, especially once you're swimming. I'm a cold weenie, am racing the 5150 on Sunday, and certainly won't be wearing a wetsuit if it's 80.

I'd also advise against wearing a wetsuit for the first time in a race.

Good luck!

No need for a wetsuit. The water temp is going to be great.

I don't know where you saw 80 degrees, but I'm actually seeing 84-85. (Galveston Pier 21 bouy)).

Even if the water drops to 83 and is legal, it could get too hot with the swim cap and a wetsuit. I raced Bridgeland in August - the water was 85 or so and I was getting hot with the swim cap on after about 400m. (Luckily it was only 600m).

The saltwater is going to provide at least 50% of buoyancy of a wetsuit , so even if you are a poorer swimmer, you'll gain some of the buoyancy advantage.

I'd say your friends are crazy for wanting a wetsuit in this race, not the other way around.

Thanks for the info. I was planning to go without one... Im not afraid of cold water This will only be my second Tri and my first OWS so should be fun.

Now I am stalking the weather...

Justin Cold feet!!! LOL!!

Bro During cold bike rides other than wearing socks try applying duck tape to the vents of your tri cyclingshoes.