Tenderfoot Mountain Duathalon - Triathlon FAQ

Q. What is there to do in Salida?
A. Salida has plenty of everything. There are lots of restaurants for the varied palates. Motels and bed & breakfast are abundant. Varied merchants can be found throughout the historic district. Hiking, camping and fishing are everyday occurrences in the Tenderfoot Mountain Triathlon area.

Q. Where can we get information on where to stay and what to do?
A. First, try our sponsors’ page.

Next, try Chamber of commerce at www.salidachamber.org or call 719-539-2068

Q. What is the length and size of the Pool?
A. 25 meters and six lanes.

Q. How warm is the pool on race day?
A. Our water is a natural Hot Springs and we have an up to date regulating system, however, water temp can vary. We will try to keep it in the 80-83 degree range for the Triathlon.

Q. How is the swim portion of a Triathlon swum in a Pool?
A. There are six lanes and may be up to 4-5 people per lane. We match swimming abilities (speed) with lane partners. Therefore is is imperative that you predict your swim time as accurately as possible. The starter will start each lane sperately. No heats.

Q. How does timing work?
A. Ankle chips are provided to each entrant. Times are kept via the chip. Times are broken down into sections of the race including transitions. Best overall times in each age bracket will be declared the winner.

Q. What is the Bike course like?
A. Bike route is a 25-mile ride, broken into 12.5-mile loop done twice. Road bikes are recommended. Most of the loop is on city or county roads that are not heavily traveled. However, there is a section along highway 285 that is mainly downhill and fast. A wide shoulder along the highway offers some comfort before ending with a very sharp and dangerous right hand turn onto a county road. Check out the map.

Q. Is the Bike course flat?
A. No, it starts out on Holman, which is flat. You turn on to CR 140 and start a flat to gradual up hill, very slight. Then you reach a short, but steep hill. At the top it gets flat again. You will reach Hwy 285, turn, and go for a flat short distance to a long screaming downhill. You will then come to CR 160 and SLOW way down for a sharp right turn. That road goes down hill for a couple of miles then turns to flat road. There is one more very short, med. steep hill, and the rest is flat or downhill. That is one loop.

Q. Is there water on the Bike course?
A. No! Most people use camel backs or water bottles on the Bike ride. There are support stations and check stations along the route but mainly you are on your own.

Q. What is the running course like?
A. The course is a 10K out-and-back run. Runners leave the Aquatic Center and follow the same route for the first half mile as the bikes did. The course then follows along a concrete pathway for about a mile and a half towards the Arkansas River. Cross over the river and you will be on dirt and gravel. The river is the lowest elevation on the route. The next half mile is steep and grinding. The last three quarter of a mile is mainly downhill. Then, you turn around and bypass the steep part on your way back towards the river. Once at the river it is the same back as going out. Check out the map.

Q. Will there be aid stations along the run?
A. Yes! There will be water and help at different points along the route.

Q. What kind of weather can I expect?
A. Anything! Salida is located at 7100’ in a gorgeous valley. We are surrounded by high peaks. As with any mountain weather be prepared for anything. We have had races where it’s been 75 degrees and we have had snow, so be prepared!

Q. Can I participate in two events and a friend in the third?
A. Yes, however, you will be counted as a team and scored as a team.

Q. Are there refunds?
A. No! If you don’t show, change your mind, bad weather cancellation or get injured there is no refund. That is the policy and will be enforced, a lot of time and effort go into this race, months before race day.

Q. If I’m getting an award but I can’t stay for the ceremony, will you mail it to me?
A. Yes, you will have to give us a shipping address and leave $7.00 for shipping.

Q. What time do I start?
A. There will be a pre-race meetings Friday night or early Saturday morning. First swimmers will start at 7:00 am. You will be assigned a swim heat according to your anticipated swim time listed on your entry form. When you estimate your swim time try and be as accurate as possible.

Q. What time do I have to secure my Bike in the transition area?
A. All Bikes need to be secured by 7:00 am.

Q. Is the bike area a secured area?
A. We will have volunteers watching the area for security; however, ultimately you are the person who is responsible for your equipment.

Q. What if I have more questions?
A. Send an email to tadamay@juno.com.