Wetsuit or no wetsuit
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triNick posted 2 years ago.
Scott,
It's highly possible that you might be the only one with a wetsuit and it's possible that they might no even let you do it.
I understand the confidence issue but on the other hand you don't want to overheat. One way to help you on the confidence issue is if the race is using a mass start then stay toward the back of the pack when the gun goes off. That way you don't have to worry as much. If you have an interval start, then I would say swim on the outside, farther away from the buoys.
If they let you wear the wetsuit and the water is warm, you might want to add some ice inside your wetsuit to keep you cool, front and back.
Don't worry about what other people think, just go out and give it your ALL!
Good luck,
-triNick
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Iron Man posted 2 years ago.
i have never raced in a wet suit, mainly because i cant afford one! but i have been the only guy at a tri without one, however i don't feel the cold so much. I can keep up with the best guys on our team without a wet suit but it seems like a nice luxury to have!
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Tikal Dog posted 2 years ago.
Ice in your wetsuit??? Woohooo that sounds like a good joke to pull on somebody!!!
I don´t now if USAT has different rules but for ITU the rules about Wetsuit Use are:
For AGe group competitors:
Swim length:
1500m Forbiddeen above 22°C Mandatory below 14°C.
1501m-3000m Forbidden above 23°C Mandatory below 15°C
3001m-4000m Forbidden above 24°C Mandatory below 16°C
Water Temperature must be taken one day prior to race day and race morning one hour prior to the start of the event. It must be taken in the middle of the course at a depth of 60cm.
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So if the temperature doesn´t allow it... they probably won´t let you use it. And you shouldn´t worry about it that much!!! It´s all on your mind!!!!
Hyperactive Trifueler!!!! (I refuse to let the status go :p)
Ok... so I will be doing my first half-Iron is a little more than a month and I have a question about wetsuits. The water temp will probably be a little above 78 deg. My understanding of the rules in this case is that wetsuits are permitted but I won't be eligible for any awards (not gonna happen anyway). I am thinking of wearing a suit anyway for the added buoyancy (and confidence - I haven't competed at this distance yet). If I decide to wear the wetsuit - will I be the only guy out there with one on or is it pretty common for people to wear them anyway? By the way - this race (Ironstar Half) allowed wetsuits a few years ago and since this summer was pretty mild, they may be allowed outright. Curious as to your comments... thanks!
-Scott