General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Athena vs first timer for first triathlon?? Rss Feed  
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2007-10-11 12:49 PM

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Subject: Athena vs first timer for first triathlon??
Hey, I am registering for my first triathlon in July and wonder which category I would be better to register. I am going to be 40 and currently weight 175lbs. I have been on weight watchers for a couple of years and have plateaued here for over a year regardless of what I do. I know that as I begin my training, I will likely lose more but am not counting on 26lbs which would then bump me out of the athena category (150lbs and under). What are advantages and disadvantages to each category?

Thanks,
Randi


2007-10-11 1:04 PM
in reply to: #1002961

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Subject: RE: Athena vs first timer for first triathlon??

What is your goal for the race??  If it is just to finish go 1st timer since you will start at the back and avoid some confusion.  If you goal is to place it is a crap shoot which division you have the best chance.   There are fast people in each group generally so there are no guarantees.  If you are concerned about the start the 1st timer wave maybe the way to go.

Good luck.

2007-10-11 1:17 PM
in reply to: #1002961

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Subject: RE: Athena vs first timer for first triathlon??
Thanks. I don't have any lofty goals of winning or finishing in the top, just finishing so I guess first timer is the place for me.
2007-10-11 4:19 PM
in reply to: #1002961

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Subject: RE: Athena vs first timer for first triathlon??
I had the same options for my first tri, and I went novice. I figured I only have one season to check that :-)
2007-10-11 8:55 PM
in reply to: #1002961

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Subject: RE: Athena vs first timer for first triathlon??
Well, I just heard from the race organizer of the tri I will be competing in. Although I did register for the novice, it seems they are seriously thinking about eliminating that category this year because it was so huge and had to be split into 3 large waves - which worked against the reasoning behind it in the first place- to allow for smaller waves with novices who are more likely to panic. I guess they feel by placing them more by age it will more evenly distribute the numbers so I have asked what I need to do to switch my registration from FT to athena, unless I lose more than 25 lbs between now and July then I would be competing in my age range.

I guess only time will tell.
Randi
2007-10-11 10:06 PM
in reply to: #1002961

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Subject: RE: Athena vs first timer for first triathlon??

Normally you can change categories from Athena to AG race day or the week before. Some races actually weigh you and if you are under they move you to AG.

Normally the difference is your swim wave.

Enjoy the training! 



2007-10-12 3:31 AM
in reply to: #1002961

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Subject: RE: Athena vs first timer for first triathlon??

Going Athena won't be too bad if they are doing away with the novice because RD's will usually start us "gravitationally challenged" folks in the back as well, thinking we are going to slower than most.  Siwwy Wace Diwectows....some of us can motor.

2007-10-12 8:05 AM
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Subject: RE: Athena vs first timer for first triathlon??
This decision should be based partially on your swimming ability.  If can swim at all then go Athena.  The washing machine will pretty much be gone in the first 100yd for most people so unless you are going to be swimming near the front I wouldn't worry too much about that.  If it makes you nervous just start in ther back middle and you'll be fine.  The Athena category (like the clydes) is highly variable but there is the chance that it will be sparsely populated leaving you with a high finish.  It's obvious that the First timer wave will not have that problem.  Whatever you choose we are all looking forward to seeing the race report.
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General Discussion Triathlon Talk » Athena vs first timer for first triathlon?? Rss Feed