FAQs
Where can I park on race day?
Please see the parking page here.
What will the water temperature be?
Historical temperatures have ranged from 68-73. Wetsuits are optional. We'll take readings in the days leading up to the event and post them on the homepage and our Facebook page.
What are the rules and penalties associated with a USAT-sanctioned race?
The Race Rules goes over race protocol and violations. You will need to know the rules associated with this race in order to avoid penalties. You can also click here for the 10 most common violations that happen in these events.
When/Where can I rack my bike?
You can rack your bike on race morning from 6 a.m. - 7:15 a.m. 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 check-in
- The bike number is secured to the top-tube of your bike frame. 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 teams compete?
A team must consist of at least two members (one person cannot compete in all three legs of a relay). All team members must check in at registration to pick up their race packet (team members cannot pick up race packets for their teammates). A 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. Teams will transfer the timing chip (an ankle strap) at their assigned bike rack in the transition area. (The timing chip is the "baton".)
Why are the waves set up the way they are?
We set up the waves based on which age-groups historically have the greatest number of people posting the fastest overall times. This does not mean that the first wave has an advantage over later waves. Someone starting in the last wave still has every opportunity to win the race.
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.
Is it safe to swim in the Hudson River?
Arrangements have been made to assure that dredging operations will not occur during the triathlon and to assure that operations will not present health or safety concerns for triathlon participants. As such, we recommend participants follow the General Advice section of the New York State Department of Health's (NYSDOH) fact sheet available here. If you have questions, please contact Bridget Boyd at 518-402-7850. The NYSDOH has had a table at our race each year to provide information and to answer any questions from our athletes. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also has information available on site. Per USA Triathlon requirements, we also get a water test from a local agency prior to the race to test for bacteria levels. Our past tests showed nothing outside the norm of an open water environment and we expect the same for this year.
Will there be aid stations?
There will be two aid stations, both on the run (one immediately outside of the transition area, the other at the 1 - 1.5 mile mark). Owing to the short nature of the race, these stations will have water only.
Where are the toilets?
There will be 8 port-o-johns available at the race site: 2 near the transition area and 6 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. For spectators, the Caldwelle Belle is a river boat docked right at our transition area and will offer coffee, pastries, etc. to hungry and thirsty spectators. 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!
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. If you're on a team, all of your teammates must pick up his/her own packet. Please bring a photo ID.