It's race day!

One of the parts of triathlon I like best is race day. It's like going to a big party with hundreds of like minded people.

Race organizers are getting better each year at putting on fun, competitive events, in interesting locations. From the courses, to the volunteers, to the expos, to the post race activities a triathlon race is a great place to spend a Saturday or Sunday.

For the athletes it is a chance to test their progress, challenge themselves, and measure themselves against other athletes, and share their successes with their loved ones (who also got up at 4 am to get to the venue - LOVE YOU!).

For the those going to a race the first time it can be a daunting experience. Lots of people moving around, all looking less nervous than you (don't believe it for one second!), announcements, time moving way to quickly, and a line at the Porto Potty that makes a rush hour traffic jam look tame.

So after going to many races here are a few things that help me on race day:

1) Arrive early. This is the key to staying calm and collected. You'll get a parking spot, you'll have time to register, you'll be able to find a good spot in the transition area, you'll have time to set up, warm up, and find a place to think positive spots before you head to the water. And most importantly, you'll get to the Porto Potty when there is little to no line-up, and still has toilet paper. You do not want to be the person rushing in late, squeezing into a small space on the bike rack, and forgetting something.

2) Move slowly and with purpose. If you rush you`ll either forget something or create a big problem e.g. flat tire, rip your wet suit, break your glasses. It`s happened, just don`t let it happen to you.

3) Smile.

4) Help out a fellow athlete. At some point you will need help from someone - use their pump, borrow their goggles, ask for a CO2 cartridge. Buy yourself some good Karma, and help you if you can.

5) Thank the volunteers. Putting on a race take many volunteers - registration and body marking, safety crews, aid stations, and timing. Without them you don`t have a race. Be nice to them, thank them. Hey, the got up just as early as you for a sport they love.

So, go out and have a great race.

Keep tri`n.