A. Preliminary results are posted soon after athletes begin to finish. Results are then updated continuously throughout the race. Results are not official until all penalties have been assessed.

Q. What if I do not see my name in the results, or my time is incorrect?

A. First check to see if your race number is on the USAT penalty list. After that, notify a timing official as soon as possible.

Q. My name is on the penalty list. There must be a mistake!

A. Penalties are assessed by the USAT officials. We cannot remove them unless directed to do so by the Head USAT Official assigned to the event. All questions concerning penalties should be addressed to them. A USAT official will be present at the results viewing area from the time the USAT penalties are posted until we start the official awards ceremony.

Q. Are the results posted on the web?

A. Yes, results will be available for viewing on www.sommersports.com following the race. Results are usually posted within a few hours after the conclusion of the race. If we have a valid email address for you in our database, you will also receive an email with your split times.

Q. Will we receive complete results in the mail?

A. No, complete results are available for viewing on the Sommer Sports website.

Q. I placed for an award but have to leave before the scheduled awards ceremony. What should I do?

A. We encourage you to find a way to stick around and enjoy the festivities. If you absolutely, positively must leave before the award ceremony starts, you can have your award mailed to you if you. Simply fill out the award order form online which can be found at: www.sommersports.com. Simply select the Register Online option from the menu on the left and follow the instructions just like you were registering for a race. The awards are listed at the top of the entry selection page. There is an $8 fee to cover costs associated with shipping and handling for the continental US; international shipping rates vary, so please check with Andrea at: andrea@sommersports.com for current fees. All awards must be claimed within 30 days of the race date.

Bike

Q. When can I retrieve my bike?

A. After the last cyclist comes into the transition area. The Transition Coordinator will notify athletes that it is OK to retrieve your bike and gear.

Q. Where can I get a spare tube or a bike repair completed?

A. There are several bicycle vendors/mechanics located in the expo area. Please note that at some events race morning will be a very busy time for our bike vendors so plan accordingly.

ChampionChip Timing

Q. Why are my official results posted on your website different from the ones that were posted at the race?

A. we often make changes to the official posted results within a day or two following the race. This can be done for the following reasons:

- Missing or incorrect athlete data that is not brought to our attention until after the race.
- Friends or family members inadvertently switching race numbers and/or chips.
- Volunteers distributing the wrong ChampionChip or race packet to an athlete.
- Unknown personal Championchip numbers.
- Lost ChampionChips with results being found in our backup data.

Many athletes do not hang around following the race and so they do not notify us of problems or missing results after they review the results on our website.

We also review the results data when we clean-up the split times back in the office. This often results in changes to the official results.

At the race site we say the results are official after all finishers are in and the penalties assessed. The official results we send to USAT for rankings are generated 7-10 days following the race.

Q. What is a ChampionChip?

A. A ChampionChip is a tiny computer transponder that you wear during the race for scoring purposes. If you do not wear the ChampionChip assigned to you, you will not be scored in the race.

Q. Do I need to rent a ChampionChip for the race?

A. ChampionChips are provided for all participants in the event. There is no charge for the chip unless you fail to reurn it following the race.
In most cases, the chips are distributed on race morning.

Q. How does it work?

A. Click here for a detailed explanation of the ChampionChip system.

Q. What happens if I lost the ChampionChip?

A. Your are responsible for the ChampionChip and band. If you lose it, or do not return it following the race, you will be billed for the replacement cost of the chip and band ($35).

Q. I'm on a Relay Team, who wears the ChampionChip?

A. Each member of the team wears the chip during his/her segment of the race. The members will transfer the chip from one team member to another in a designated area within the transition area.

Q. What do I do if I lose my ChampionChip during the race?

A. Notify the Transition Coordinator in the transition area that that you have lost your chip. They have temporary replacement ChampionChips that they can issue to you to wear during the remainder of the race. If you are unable to obtain a replacement chip, make sure you notify the finish line timers at the finish line so they can manually record your time.

Q. Where do I put the chip?

A. The ChampionChip is attached to an ankle bracelet that must be worn around your ankle during the entire race. It does not matter which ankle you affix it to, or if the chip is above or below your socks or wetsuit. If the ChampionChip is not affixed to your ankle, you will not be scored.

Q. Can I put the ChampionChip on my own ankle bracelet?

A. Yes, as long as it secures the chip in a perpendicular position to the ground. You must return our band to us or you will be billed $5 for the replacement cost of the band.

Q. Can I race with my own ChampionChip?

A. Yes. You can race with your own personal ChampionChip as long as you included your ChampionChip number on your registration form. When you check-in during registration, please verify your personal information to make certain your personal ChampionChip number was recorded.

Q. How can I make sure you have my ChampionChip number assigned to me for the race?

A. When you check-in for the race, you will be presented a card that lists your personal race information. If we have your ChampionChip number on file, it will be listed on the card. If it is not listed, please contact the registration personnel.

Q. I purchased a ChampionChip after I registered for the race. Can I race with it?

A. Yes, as long as you notify the registration personnel during check-in. You can also complete a registration change request form online prior to the race.

Q. If I own my chip, do I need to put this on the form every time I register?

A. Yes, each time you register you need to indicate your ChampionChip number on the entry form.

General

Q. What is the race check-in procedure?

A. 1. Your first stop will be to check-in at the USAT table and show your photo ID and either show proof of USAT membership or purchase a one-day membership.
2. If you are preregistered proceed to the waiver desk and sign the race waiver form. For minors, parents must show a photo ID before signing the waiver form. If you are not preregistered then go to the late registration table.
3. Next take your waiver to the packet area and get your race info and numbers.
4. Finally pick up your t-shirt and goodie bag.

Q. What foods and fluids will be available on the course?

A. Water and Gatorade will be available before the start of the race at the Gatorade hydration center. Water and Gatorade will be also available at the end of the swim, the start of the run, and every mile thereafter. In addition two water bottle exchanges will be available on the bike course. At the finish of the race you will enjoy the Champion's Buffet.

Q. Can my spouse or friends help me in during the race?

A. No. The sport of triathlon is an individual sport. In accordance with USAT rules, outside assistance is not allowed and will result in a USAT penalty.

Q. My friends would like to volunteer while I am racing, what should they do?

A. We'd love to have them! Click here to complete a voluneteer application.

Q. I plan to participate in several stops of the Tri-America Series. Do you have special travel packages available?

A. Yes, visit the Travel Desk for the latest information.

Q. I do not wish to travel with my bike. Can I ship it to the race?

A. Yes, at each venue we will provide information about our preferred bike vendor. Please read the race web page to learn more.

Q. I want to race, but cannot bring my bike. Are bike rentals available?

A. Bike rental will be available on a first come basis at select events. Quantities are limited and bikes must be reserved in advance. Please check the race web site to see if rentals are available.

Race Registration

Q. Do I need to qualify in order to enter a race?

A. No, race entry is open to individuals and two and three person relay teams. For the Olympic distance triathlon, the minimum age for individual competition is 15.

Q. Will race participation be limited?

A. Yes. For safety reasons, and to ensure a quality race experience for all participants, each venue will have a predetermined limit on participation. The course limit will vary with each venue. Once the course limit is reached at a venue, registration will close for that venue. Course limits will be posted on the general information pages for each venue.

Q. How do I enter?

A. The easiest and quickest way to enter is by registering online here. You can also enter by mail or fax. Entry forms are available for download here.

Q. Will late registration be available?

A. Late registration will only be available at an event if that race has not reached capacity. Please check the event website for updated registration availability. Race Day registration will not be available.

Q. What if I do not see my name on the entry list?

A. It may take several days from the time we receive your entry until your name appears on the updated entry lists. If you entered online, you will receive a confirmation email confirming your entry. If it has been 7 days or longer since you entered, and your name is not on the appropriate entry list, please contact our office.

Q. What is the difference between Age Group, Military, Challenged, Clydesdale and Athena?

A. These titles are racing categories offered by Sommer Sports at our events. As an athlete you may select ONE category to compete in. Age Group is for regular age group competition, Military is for athletes currently serving in or employed by the military, Challenged is for physically challenged athletes, Clydesdale is the division for males 200 lbs. and over, and Athena for females 150 lbs. and over.

Q. If I meet the Clydesdale or Athena weight categories, do I have to race in those divisions?

A. No. You can select to race as an age group athlete, or as a Clydesdale\Athena athlete.

Q. If I am currently in the military, do I have to race in the Military division?

A. No. You can select to race as an age group athlete, a Clydesdale\Athena athlete, or in the Military division.

Q. Can I transfer my individual entry to a Relay Team entry?

A. Yes, as long as the change is made at least 15 days prior to the event. You will need to submit the additional entry forms for your teammates, along with the difference in the entry fees, plus the $10 transfer fee.

Q. Can I transfer my entry to another race in the series?

A. Yes. In order to transfer to another race in the same series, there are two things you must do:
1) Contact Andrea at: andrea@sommersports.com to request a transfer form. This form must be received in our office at least 10 days prior to the event that you are transferring from.
2) A $10 transfer fee must accompany your transfer request. Entries can only be transferred to events that are not closed to registration.
We can only transfer entries to another event within the same series; we do not transfer entries to the following year.

Q. Can I transfer my entry to another person?

A. Yes, entries can be transfered to another person. All transfers must be pre-authorized, be accompanied by a $25 transfer fee, and be completed at least 10 days prior to the race you are transfering from. No transfers allowed less than ten days out from the race. To request a transfer, please email entries@sommersports.com.

Q. Do you offer discounts for clubs?

A. Discounted entries are available for clubs. Clubs can purchase entry vouchers and save up to $35 per race! A minimum of 10 vouchers must be purchased. The level of discount depends on the number of entry vouchers purchased. These discounts are only available for the Olympic distance races. Contact andrea@sommersports.com for more information on our club discount program.

Relay Teams

Q. How do Relay Teams work?

A. A relay team consists of two or three athletes competing in separate segments of the race. Typically, one team member swims, another bikes, and the third runs. In a two-person team, one member completes two segments. Relay Teams are categorized as male, female, or co-ed.

Q. Can one team member pick-up our team packets or do all of us need to be present?

A. USAT rules require that everybody show a photo ID and USAT membership, so all members of the relay team must be present to pick up their portion of the race packet. If you are not all arriving together then we can release the appropriate portion of the race packet to the member present, either the race number, bike number or swim cap. Each team member must show a photo ID and proof of USAT membership, or purchase a one-day membership. In the past we have been able to accept signed waivers along with a copy of a photo ID and USAT membership via facsimile. Beginning with the 2006 season, USAT specifically prohibits this practice and all triathletes must appear in person.

Swim

Q. Will the swim be a mass start?

A. In all events except for the FULL Great Floridian Triathlon, swimmers will start in waves determined by their race division, gender and age.

Q. What is a 'wave'?

A. The swim is organized by �waves� that is one or more divisions start at specific times with 2-10 minutes inbetween. Wave start times are posted at Packet pick up and an information sheet is included in your race packet. You must start in your wave according to USAT rules or result in a time penalty or disqualification.

Q. Is the swim fresh water or salt water?

A. Please check the information pages for each event for specific information on the swim.

Q. What about water quality?

A. Water testing has already been performed at each stop in the Series. Additional water tests will be performed leading up to the start of each race. In the event of the unlikely situation where water tests show that the water is unsafe for swimming, a 5K run will be substituted for the swim.

Q. Do I need to bring a swim cap?

A. No. Swim caps will be provided in your race packet.

Q. Can I use a snorkel in the swim?

A. Yes, USA Triathlon rules allow for the use of a snorkel while swimming.

Q. Will wet suits be allowed on the swim?

A. It depends on the water temperature at the venue. Established USAT rules will be followed. If the water temperature is 78 F or below, wetsuits will be allowed. Between 78 F and 84 F, wetsuit use is permitted, however, athletes wearing them will start in a separate wave and will not be eligible for awards or rankings. Above 84 F, wetsuit use is prohibited.

Transitions

Q. When do I check my gear in?

A. In most instances, gear is checked in the morning of the event. At some events like the Great Floridian, Tri-America Series Finale, and perhaps other venues, you may be required to check your bike in on Saturday. Please consult the race web site for the latest information.

Q. Are there changing tents in the Transition area?

A. No for all events except the Great Floridian. However port-o-lets will be available within the transition area.

Tri America

Q. What is the Tri-America Series all about?

A. The Tri-America Triathlon Series is a grassroots based national series geared towards the amateur athlete. Each event will include a youth event, a super sprint triathlon, the interactive Tri-America Festival of Fitness and Sports, a sprint triathlon (except series finale), and the main event, the Tri-America Olympic Distance Triathlon

Q. Do I need to qualify for the Tri-America Series Finale?

A. For 2004 you do not need to qualify for the Series Finale. Entry is limited to 2000 and we encourage you to enter early to ensure your place at the starting line.

Q. I would like to have a Tri-America event closer to my town. I know of a great location. Who should I contact?

A. We are already negotiating with venues for stops in the 2006 Tri-America Series. Please contact us for more details.

Q. How did you select the Tri-America Venues?

A. First, we targeted venues that have a strong triathlete base within a few hours drive from the potential race site. The venues had to be able to support at least 1,200 athletes on a safe and challenging course. We also searched for venues that are family destination locations with lots of cool things to do in addition to the triathlon. We then narrowed the locations down to venues that offered us the opportunity to partner with a dynamic local host organization. We also had to take our company's existing race schedule into consideration along with the established events in each market. For the first year of the series, we selected six exciting venues that have the ability to grow with the series. Each community has the desire to make the Tri-America Series as successful as we do, and each one is committed to make their stop the best in the series!

Q. How do I find out more information on the Tri-America Festival of Fitness and Sports?

A. The Tri-America Festival of Fitness and Sports is an important part of each stop in the series. The festival is not being designed for the athletes only; there will be something to do for everyone! Watch for more information here soon!

USA Triathlon

Q. Do I need to show a photo ID at USAT check-in?

A. Yes. USAT rules require that all athletes must show a photo ID in order to race. Minors must have a parent present to sign USAT form and show their photo ID. If you do not have a photo ID you will not be allowed to participate in the event.

Q. What is USA Triathlon?

A. USA Triathlon (USAT) is the National Governing Body for triathlon and duathlon. USA Triathlon sanctions events, picks national, world and Olympic teams; trains and hires officials; promotes the sport, etc. To learn more about USA Triathlon and the official rules, Click here.

Q. What is meant by "Sanctioned by USA Triathlon"?

A. The USAT sanctioning process ensures that each event that gets the USAT stamp of approval is safe, fair, legal, and well-organized. In turn, this allows USAT athletes to compete in quality events and potentially become a nationally ranked athlete .

Q. Are all Sommer Sports Events sanctioned by USAT?

A. Yes, all Sommer Sports events (Tri-America Series, Central Florida Triathlon Series and Great Floridian) will be sanctioned by USA Triathlon.

Q. Do I need to join USA Triathlon to compete in a Sommer Sports event?

A. No, you do not need to be a USAT member to compete. Non USAT members will be required to purchase a one-day license at check-in ($9). USAT membership is certainly encouraged because of the great benefits package each member receives, and if you go to their website at, www.usatriathlon.org you can purchase a yearly membership for $30.

Q. I put my USAT number on the registration form. Do I still need to bring my membership card to check-in?

A. Yes! Even though we may have your USAT number on file, we still must see proof of current membership at check-in. Your USAT number does not indicate your membership status. If you do not bring proof of membership along with a photo ID to check-in, you will be required to purchase a one-day license in order to compete

Q. What if I lost my card, or recently joined USAT and have not received my card?

A. Visit the USA Triathlon website at www.usatriathlon.org for details on how to obtain a replacement card or temporary proof of membership.

Q. What about relay teams? Do all relay team members need a USAT license?

A. Yes. Just like individual participants, all members of the relay team must show proof of USAT membership or each team member will be required to purchase a one-day license at check-in.

Q. Should I include my USA Triathlon membership fees with my registration form?

A. No, please do not submit any USA Triathlon fees or membership forms with your race application. You can join USAT online at www.usatriathlon.org or as part of the Tri-America event check-in process.