First-Timer Guide
Welcome to the world of triathlon!
Whether you’re here for the thrill, the challenge, or just to try something new, this guide will get you race-ready with confidence. We’ll keep it simple so you can focus on enjoying your first event.
The MetaSprint Series
Ease into multisport progressively with our step-by-step pathway:
- Aquathlon – Swim + Run
- Duathlon – Run + Bike + Run
- Triathlon – Swim + Bike + Run
Each race builds your fitness, skills, and confidence – perfect for first-timers and improvers alike.
Get Equipped
Not sure what you need? Start simple. Borrow gear from friends or pick up essentials at local retailers.
Our event gear checklist by discipline:
- Aquathlon: Swim gear, running shoes, race bib, hat, sunglasses
- Duathlon: Running kit, bike, helmet, cycling shoes, sunglasses
- Triathlon: Swim gear, bike + helmet, cycling shoes, running shoes, race bib
(Need gear? See our recommended shops at the end.)
Train Smart
You don’t need to train every day. A couple of sessions a week at or near race distance will build confidence.
Mix it up: swim one day, run another, or cycle with friends.
- Join a Clinic: We run pre-race clinics for swim, bike, run and transitions. Perfect for tips and race-day confidence.
- Group Coaching: Weekly MetaSport sessions with expert coaches – fun, social and supportive.
Check our training page for schedules.
Race-Day Checklists
Aquathlon
- ✅ Read the Athlete Guide and Final Announcements email
- ✅ Collect race kit 1 hour before your wave
- ✅ Set up your gear in the transition area
- ✅ Apply sunscreen, deposit your bag, head to swim start
- ✅ Follow marshal instructions and start when called
- ✅ Enjoy the swim!
- ✅ Remove swim cap & goggles
- ✅ Put on running shoes, shirt, bib
- ✅ Head for the “RUN OUT” sign
- ✅ Follow course signs and marshals
- ✅ Drink at aid stations
- ✅ Cross the line with a smile, collect medal, water, and bag
Duathlon
- ✅ Read Athlete Guide & email
- ✅ Collect race kit 1 hour before start
- ✅ Rack bike, set-up cycling gear, deposit bag
- ✅ Wear run gear to star
- ✅ Follow signs, pace yourself, drink at aid stations
- ✅ Helmet on first, un-rack bike
- ✅ Push bike to “BIKE OUT”
- ✅ Ride left, pass right (call out “Passing!”)
- ✅ Count your laps
- ✅ Dismount at line, push bike back
- ✅ Rack bike first, then remove helmet
- ✅ Put on running shoes, head for “RUN OUT”
- ✅ Follow course to “FINISH”
- ✅ Collect medal, water, and belongings
Triathlon
- ✅ Read Athlete Guide & email
- ✅ Collect race kit 1 hour before start
- ✅ Rack bike, leave in swim gear, deposit bag
- ✅ Head to swim start
- ✅ Follow swim buoys and complete required laps
- ✅ Cap & goggles off
- ✅ Helmet and cycling shoes on
- ✅ Un-rack bike and push to mount line
- ✅ Mount after the line, complete laps
- ✅ Dismount before line, run to transition
- ✅ Rack bike first, then remove helmet
- ✅ Running shoes & race number on
- ✅ Head to “RUN OUT”
- ✅ Follow course signs and marshals
- ✅ Drink at stations
- ✅ Finish strong, collect medal, water, bag, bike
Where to Get Gear
Clothing, Shoes & Nutrition
Bikes
Your First Triathlon, Simplified
- Keep it simple – use what you have.
- Practise the distances.
- Read all pre-race info.
- Smile at the finish.
You’re ready to go! 🎉
