Whether you’re an elite athlete or a weekend warrior, a triathlon is a grueling, yet rewarding, test of endurance. The annual St. Louis Triathlon, which takes place this year on Sunday, May 21 at Creve Coeur Park, features a swim across Creve Coeur Lake, a bicycle race along Highway 141, and an out-and-back run through the park.
Both participants and the people on the hand to cheer them on will need to digest plenty of information in order to make this year’s event as enjoyable as it can be. Here’s what you ought to know before you go.
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When do events get underway?
The race begins Sunday at 7 a.m. with a swim. The biking and running challenges will follow. Para-athletes will start in the water beginning at 6:45 a.m.
How early should athletes and spectators plan to arrive?
Because Highway 141 closes at 6 a.m., it is crucial that athletes arrive between 4:30–5 a.m. to ensure there are no delays to pre-race preparation. Spectators certainly do not need to be on site that early. However, with the highway closure, it’ll be important to follow specific directions to the designated parking area. “We recommend they take 270 to Dorsett to Marine, and come in that way,” race director Sally Drake says.
How does packet pickup work?
Athletes are encouraged to pick up their packets and drop off their bikes on Saturday, May 20 from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. The Lou Fusz Athletic Training Center (1 Athletic Drive) in Earth City will be the site of the Endurance Expo, which will feature vendors, an athlete’s lounge, and yard games, packet pickup, and a pre-race talk with Drake and other officials.
Any athlete who wishes to rack their bike on the eve of the race should take it to Creve Couer Park.
“Dropping off your bike is encouraged,” Drake says. “It will just make the morning go more smoothly. That way, once athletes arrive, they can just park and then walk over to transition where their bike is, and then they’re ready to go.”
Where are some of the best places to watch each event?
You won’t want to miss the swim start, which serves as a fun and exciting way to watch athletes begin their journey. While athletes are navigating Creve Coeur Lake, walk over to the swim exit to see your friends or loved ones emerge from the water and run to the transition station located next to the parking lot.
“From there, they take off on their bikes,” Drake says. “If spectators want to see athletes on the bike, it’s a little difficult because they’re on 141. They could walk up to 141 where the road closed and it’s reasonably safe, or they can wait in transition. Transition is fun. There’s a lot of action going on, and they can wait to watch their athlete come back and head out on the run.”
The entirety of the run takes place within Creve Coeur Park, so find a spot where you’re comfortable and can spot the athlete for whom you’re rooting. “If you don’t want to do a lot of walking during the race, transition is the most exciting place to be,” Drake says.
What should athletes know about the swimming course?
The water’s fine! Jump right in! In all seriousness, the water is tested and surveyed several times leading up to the race to ensure it’s clean and free of debris. Drake says it’s never been a problem. As far as wetsuits, athletes can wear them if the water is 78 degrees or below. Typically, it’s warm enough that they’re not necessary.
What should athletes know about the biking course?
It’s very fast! “People love the course,” Drake says. “They love riding on a highway that they normally aren’t allowed to ride on, and it’s super flat and fast.”
What should athletes know about the running course?
The out-and-back track traces the perimeter of the lake. New this year, runners who’d rather not complete a full triathlon can sign up for a standalone 5K run on Sunday morning. “If athletes have family members who like running but not all of the other stuff, they can still come and participate in the 5K,” Drake says.
Are there any other similar types of races, besides the triathlon and the 5K?
Yes! Among them is a duathlon, which is a run-bike-run event. If you’re not skilled in the water, or you’d rather just not swim, it’s worth considering. There’s also a relay event, which is great for families and groups of friends. One person does the swim, another rides the bike, and another completes the run.
Are there food and entertainment options after the race?
There are! The Finish Line Festival will feature an awards ceremony, live music, beer from local microbreweries, and a variety of post-race snacks. Experts from Optimal Performance Center and Stretch U will also be on hand to help athletes with their recoveries.
