FAQs
After registering for the event, I find I’m unable to participate. Do you give refunds?
There are no refunds for this event.
May I give or sell my slot to someone else?
Entries are non-transferable. Participants found racing under another person’s name will be disqualified according to USAT rules.
Can someone other than me pick-up my race packet?
You and only you can pick up your race packet. The times you can do so are Saturday, June 9 between 2p-6p at Olde Saratoga Bike and Board or Sunday, June 10 between 6a-7:10a at the race. If you’re on a team, all of your teammates must pick up his/her own packet. Bring a photo ID and your USAT membership card.
Where can I park?
Knowing where to park and arriving early will make things much easier on race morning! Please follow the following parking guidelines. There is parking on site at Hudson Crossing Park in the fields (see map) as you drive all the way back into the park. Let the parking volunteers guide you in order to maximize efficiency. If you park on site, plan to be there until the awards ceremony (around 10:30 a.m.) as there will be limited movement into and out of the park while the race is in progress. The field is a bit bumpy in places, fyi. If it rains, the amount of parking may be reduced so you can also park at one of these two locations:
These are .5 miles south of the park entrance. Be sure to check the weather, arrive early and carpool if at all possible.
Where should spectators park?
Spectators are welcome to park on site if traveling with a participant. Otherwise, please park at the High School or Town Hall about a quarter mile south of park. Note: 32/4 Northbound will close by 8 a.m. so no traffic will be allowed through. Spectators arriving after 8 a.m. should plan on parking at the High School or Town Hall building and walking up.
Is it safe to swim in the Hudson River?
Please see the information on Swimming in the Hudson River During Dredging (PDF) on the NYS Deptartment of Health Web site. We follow the ‘General Advice’ section of this document, since the swim takes place in a zone that is not in the immediate dredging area (when dredging is happening). If you have questions, please contact Deanna Ripstein at the New York State Department of Health at 518 402-7853. The NYSDOH has had a table at our race each year to provide information and answer any questions of our athletes. Per USA Triathlon requirements, we also get a water test from a local agency prior to the race to test for bacteria levels. Our 2011 test showed nothing outside the norm of an open water environment. For another perspective on swimming in the Hudson River, see the New York City Triathlon’s take here. Here’s another tri that takes place in the Hudson.
What will the water temperature be?
Temperature for the 2010 race was 72 degrees. Expect 69-73 for June 12, 2011. Wetsuits are optional. We’ll take readings in the weeks leading up the event and post them on the homepage and our Facebook page.
Is there a wetsuit policy?
The race will follow the normal USAT wet suit policy, stated here:
USA Triathlon Rule 4.4 — Wet Suits:
Each age group participant shall be permitted to wear a wet suit without penalty in any event sanctioned by USA Triathlon up to and including a water temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water temperature is greater than 78 degrees, but less than 84 degrees Fahrenheit, age group participants may wear a wet suit at their own discretion, provided however that participants who wear a wet suit within this temperature range shall not be eligible for prizes or awards. Age group participants shall not wear wet suits in water temperatures equal to or greater than 84 degrees Fahrenheit. The wetsuit policy for elite athletes shall be determined by the USAT Athletes Advisory Council.
What are the rules and penalties associated with a USAT-sanctioned race?
Please see the Message from the Head Referee. You can also click here for the rules and penalties (PDF).
When/Where can I rack my bike?
Bicycles may be racked as early at 6:15 a.m. race morning. Rack positions are pre-assigned so make sure you rack your bike according to your number, which you’ll receive at packet pick-up. Your helmet and bike will be inspected as you enter transition. Make sure your helmet meets safety standards and that your bar ends are plugged. Whether you rack your bike by the handlebars or seat, make sure the wheel that touches the ground is in your designated area.
Where do all of the race numbers go?
At registration you will receive several race numbers:
- Swimmers will be marked on arms, thighs and (if wearing a wetsuit) hands by body-marker volunteers at time of registration
- The bike number is secured to the top-tube of your bike frame (the numbers are adhesive). Road bike numbers must be visible from the sides, mountain bike numbers must be visible from the front.
- Bib numbers should be worn on the front of the body during the run portion of the event.
How do relay teams compete?
A relay team must consist of at least two members (one person cannot compete in all three legs of a relay). All relay team members must check in at registration to pick up their race packet. (Relay members cannot pick up race packets for their teammates) A relay team will be assigned one bib number: the swimmer will pick up the swim cap and timing chip, the biker will pick up the bike number and the runner will pick up the bib number. Relay teams will transfer the timing chip and ankle strap at their assigned bike rack in the transition area. (The timing chip is the “baton”.)
Will there be aid stations?
There will be two aid stations, both on the run (one at the 1 mile mark, the other at the 2 mile mark). Owing to the short nature of the race, these stations will have water only.
Where are the toilets?
There will be seven port-o-johns available at the race site: 3 near the transition area and 4 near check in/packet-pickup. Each area will have one handicap-accessible unit available.
Will there be food available on site?
There will be post-race food and drink available for athletes. Food includes apples, bananas, bagels and pastries. We will also have plenty of water and sports drinks and (we really really hope) coffee. Spectators should plan on bringing their own water and food. There is also the Cafe/Bakery located near the intersection of 32/29 for anyone wishing to purchase food or having breakfast after the race. Please support them!
