FAQ

Questions?  Answers.

How are athletes seeded for Vermont Sun races?

We try to seed athletes who have placed in the top 5 in any of our races.  If you wish to be seeded, please email  us at [email protected]

Are pets allowed in the park?

Pets are allowed in Branbury State Park, but must be leashed at all times.

What water temperature can I expect?

You can expect the water temp at Branbury State Park to be above 76 degrees for all events. The water temp often reaches the low 80’s in Lake Dunmore throughout the course of the summer.

Are wetsuits permitted?

Yes, wetsuits are permitted in all events, but not required.

What types of vessels can be used for the paddle portion of the race?

Kayak, Canoes or Stand Up Paddle Boards

Where can spectators park?

Branbury State Park offers ample parking for both athletes and spectators. As a matter of fact, you’ll be parked no more than a few hundred feet from the transition area.

Do you use chip timing?

Yes, chip timing is provided by 802 Timing Services.. You must wear the chip provided at registration.

Wave starts for the swim?

Yes, wave starts for all events. Typically we send 4 waves of no more than 50 per wave. You will start your swim from the beach.

Can I race with a friend as a team?

Yes, relay teams of 2 or 3 are welcomed in all events. You will be issued one timing chip at registration that will need to be transferred between team members in the transition area between legs. (i.e swimmer to biker, biker to runner)

Are the roads blocked to traffic?

No, the roads will not be closed to traffic on race day. Fortunately, rural Vermont traffic is very light on early Sunday mornings with traffic counts less than one vehicle per minute, but you must be aware of motorists at all times.

When can I rack my bike?

You may rack you bike only on race morning during pre-race registration. This applies for all events.

Are the races USAT sanctioned?

All Vermont Sun Triathlons will be USAT sanctioned. USAT is the national governing body that provides great benefits that we now feel make it worth sanctioning all of our triathlon events.

How do you break up your age groups?

Individual Age Groups will be every 5 years. For example, Female 15-19, Female 20-24, etc. for both men and women. Relay team categories will be all male, all female and mixed (or co-ed) with 39 and under OR 40 and older divisions. (note: all members of a relay team must be 40 or older to compete in that division)

I will be turning 50 on November 14th, what age group will I be in?

Your age group will be determined by your age on December 31st of the event year, NOT by age on race day. In your case, you will be 49 when competing but since you will be 50 by year end you will (for age group awards) be placed in the 50-54 age group. This is a USAT rule that applies for all events.

Can a family member help me in the transition area?

No, the transition area is strictly for participants only. You will receive a time penalty if a friend or family member is seen in the transition area. This is to ensure safety and fairness for all athletes.

Can I wear my iPod?

No, iPods or any other music player / headphones are a violation of the rules. Failure to observe this rule will result in a time penalty. Though a seemingly harmless violation, it is enforced for your safety and the safety of other event participants.

How can I get a copy of the rules?

All USAT rules apply.

 For a PDF copy of all USAT rules click here.
 For a PDF copy of the most commonly violated rules click here.

What are the time limits or cut offs?

Sprint Distance 3 hours

Olympic Distance 4 hour

What should I do if I need assistance during the race?

Our entrants have to treat their “ride” like any other ride they do. Either having repair equipment with them, a phone to call for help or waiving down a friendly passer by.

Supporting local youth sports teams and the Vermont Sun Children’s Center.