The thrill of short course triathlon
Written by Jim Levesque, the owner and head coach of Grit Endurance. Learn more about Jim’s background here!
I’ve been around the sport of triathlon for over 15 years, with 10 of them as a coach, and over that time, I’ve found that most conversations with triathletes center around long course racing (70.3 and Ironman distance events). These races certainly have their place, and can even be lifechanging accomplishments, but sometimes we forget to talk about just how awesome short course racing can be! For this conversation, we’re going to define short course triathlon as Super-sprint, Sprint and Olympic distance. So why should you consider adding short course races to your season’s plan? Here are 10 reasons to consider:
They are great for beginners – I always encourage new triathletes to start with a Sprint, then move up to Olympic before jumping into a long course race. This helps them learn along the way in smaller steps so that they have a much better chance of a positive experience in each event
They are great practice – These races help even the most experienced triathletes dust off the racing cobwebs after the offseason, and they don’t require as much preparation before or recovery afterwards
You can race fast – In many ways, while they don’t last as long, short course events can be even more physically and mentally challenging than long course, as you typically race at a higher percentage of your max effort
It can make you a stronger athlete – Training specifically to race well in short course requires higher intensity efforts, which will in turn make you a better overall triathlete
It takes less time to train – You don’t have to train as long to perform well at short course distances, so it can fit more comfortably into your busy life and be less disruptive for your family and work demands
Support local events – Most short course races are run by local grass route organizations, and you can help support the broader triathlon community by participating or even volunteering
Cheaper – Entry fees for short course races tend to be quite a bit cheaper than long course events, and travel costs are also typically much lower as well
Logistically easier – Most long course events require you to check in 1-2 days prior to the race; combine that with travel and it can take up the whole weekend if not more. Some short course events allow you to check in race morning, and you could be finished and home by lunch time!
Easier on spectators – Are you really going to ask your friends and family to follow you around for 10-17 hours at an Ironman?! Racing short course is easier on spectators and is more likely to keep them interested in coming back to support you in the future!
Fun – Let’s be real, short course racing is SO MUCH FUN! So, what are you waiting for, it’s time to sign up!