General Questions

Q: Do I have to get body marked for my triathlon and open water swims?
A: Yes. Body marking allows us to easily identify athletes and aides us in safety issues. You may not body mark yourself.

Q: If I didn’t sign up for an event, can I still participate by using the course?
A: No, anyone who is not officially entered in the event will be removed from the course.

Q: Once registration closes, will you be forming a waiting list?
A: No, we will not be forming a wait list.

Q: Where can I get a USAT license?
A: USAT licenses are mandatory for anyone participating in a YellowJacket Racing Triathlon, Duathlon, or Aquathalon. If you are not already a USAT member you may purchase a one-day license for the event by submitting payment with your registration. If you would like to purchase a one-year USAT membership, please visit their website at http://www.usatriathlon.org for information. You may also purchase an annual USAT card through registration.

Q: If I already have a USAT or USA Swimming card, do I have to bring it with me to Packet Pick-Up?
A: Yes, if you do not bring your card with you, you will be required to purchase a one-day license.  Additionally, you MUST bring a photo ID.

Q: If I can’t make the event, can I receive a refund?
A: Please review our Cancellation & Refund Policy.

Q: Can I change a member of my Relay Team?
A: Yes, but you must do so in writing within 30 days of the event. The new member will be required to complete an entry form, all waivers, and all other registration procedures.

Q: If I can’t make the race, can I give my entry to a friend?
A: No, transfers are not accepted. Please review our transfer policy on the events page.

Q: Can I use decorations (balloons, etc.) to indicate where my things are in the transition area?
A: No. We reserve the right to remove any materials that will interfere with the safety and security of our competitors and their equipment

Swim Questions

Q: What is the water temperature of Lake Ontario?
A: Lake Ontario is a large open body of water. Therefore water temperature can vary dramatically from the 50’s to the 70’s.

Q: Do I need a wetsuit?
A: Wetsuits are HIGHLY recommended but are not required.

Q: Can I rent a wetsuit?
A: Wetsuit rentals are available at Fleet Feet Sports.  We recommend reserving your rentals early as wetsuits are in high demand on race weekends.

Q: Can I use any stroke in the swim portion?
A: Yes. Swimmers may use any stroke to propel themselves through the water, and may tread water or float.

Q: If I hang onto the lane lines or buoys will I be disqualified for doing so?
A: You may stop and rest during the swim, but you must not interfere with the progress of other swimmers. You may hang onto the guard boats or buoys without penalty.

Q: Do I have to wear swim goggles?
A: No, but it is recommended. All swims are in fresh water.

Q: Can I wear swim fins?
A: No. Any swimmer wearing any artificial propulsion device, including but not limited to fins, gloves, paddles, or floating devices of any kind shall be disqualified. Aqua socks are permitted.

Bike Questions

Q: Can I use a tandem or recumbent bike in the race?
A: No.

Q: Do I have to get my bike inspected?
A: No, but we strongly urge you to do so. Many people experience technical problems on race day that could have been easily avoided if the bike had been inspected prior to the race. In order to avoid disappointment on race day we urge all competitors to have their bikes inspected no more than 3 weeks prior to the event. Please contact your local bike shop for additional information.

Q: What will the bike course be like?
A: Brief course descriptions and maps are posted on each event page.

Q: Can I wear Headphones?
A: Any participants who any time uses, wears or carries a headset, radio, headphones, or any other item described in USAT Rules Section 3.4 (i) shall be assessed a variable time penalty.

Q: Can I ride my bike in transition?
A: No. Athletes must mount or dismount their bike outside of transition. Athletes may run or carry their bikes in the transition area.