How do I join the UCSD triathlon team?

Joining the team is easy but involves a few steps.

1. Visit the UCSD Sports Clubs website and sign up.  Make sure you indicate that you are registering for the Triathlon Team. You must do this BEFORE you come to practice. (Note: The sports club website will not be ready until after Fall quarter starts.)
   
2. Sign up for the team email listserve to get the latest info about practices, races, and social events. (email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it for instructions on how to do this.)
   
3. Come to practice and meet the coaches and the rest of the team.  You can come to a few practices before deciding if you really want to join.
   
4. Pay a team due of $150/year. This fee covers various costs that the team incurs throughout the year, and entitles you to any sponsorship items the team will be receiving during the year.

What do I get as a team member?

As a member in good standing (you've paid dues), you receive a team t-shirt, access to the sports club's athletic trainers, and access to our team workouts.  Additionally, you are entitled to the numerous sponsorship deals that the team has negotiated with various companies.  Typically, members receive around $500 in various subsidies and sponsorship discounts throughout the year so the cost of dues is quite worth it.

Can I still join the team if I don't have a bike?

YES!  While having your own bike is a big advantage, we realize that it can also be a big investment.  Entry level road bikes that are suitable for training and racing start around $700.  Fortunately, the team has sponsorship deals set up which allow team members to purchase bikes at  significant discounts.  In addition to new bikes, senior team members can help new athletes purchase used bikes through various classified services.  Until you decide to take the plunge on a bike of your own, you are welcome to come swim and run with the team.

What are the essential things that I need to buy to get started doing triathlons and how much do they cost?  What things are extras?

There are a number of upfront costs when starting out in triathlon.  However, once you have invested in the equipment, it does not cost much to continue doing the sport from year to year.  Our team tries to make entry into the sport accessible by keeping our membership dues low and by seeking out sponsorships from a number of well respected companies.  We currently have a number of arrangements in place to get most of the equipment that you will need at significantly discounted prices.

Here is a list of essential gear that you will need to start training and racing with the team.

• running shoes ($60)
• swim suit and goggles ($30-$60 depending on gender)
• bike (>$700 + tax)
• bike helmet (~$50)
• misc bike accessories (water bottles, bike shorts, chain oil, etc) (~$100)

Additionally, there is no shortage of fancy triathlon equipment, which will make you go faster, look cooler, stay more comfortable, or all of the above.  Once you get into the sport more, you should consider some of the following items.   Again, we can usually get the following things at good discounts from our sponsors.

• bike shoes and clip-in pedals - makes for happy feet on long rides and dramatically increases your efficiency on the bike
• sports sunglasses - keeps the bugs, wind, and dirt out of your eyes when cycling (and makes you look cool)
• elastic shoe laces - makes it a lot easier to get your running shoes on after the cycling part of the race.
• aerobars - special handlebars for your bike that will make you more aerodynamic
• swim-specific wetsuit - keeps you warm and helps you go faster. definitely recommended for races with swims in cold water.
• cycle computer - keeps track of how far and how fast you've gone on the bike
• heart rate monitor - gives you reliable feedback about how hard you are pushing yourself

I'm terrible at swimming/biking/running! Can I still join the team?

YES!  While having some experience in each of the sports is a big help, it will not keep you from practicing and racing with us.  Every triathlete has their strong and weak events.  Our practices seek to develop each person's weaknesses, while honing their strengths.  As a team, we strive to create well-balanced, competitive athletes.

I'm really slow at (swimming/biking/running). Will I be able to keep up at practice?

Our team is open to all students at UCSD and is composed of a wide range of athletes - from complete beginners to decorated elites.  As such, we have athletes who train at many different speeds and intensities.  Chances are good that there will be someone you can train with.  It is also very common that new members are intimidated by our sport and under-estimate their own potential.  If you are uncertain of your fitness, we recommend coming to practice and taking things slow.   With some time and dedication most athletes improve far beyond what they ever thought possible.  In addition, our team strives to be inclusive of new athletes.  It is very common for more experienced athletes to help beginners along until they get comfortable at practice.