My first ever triathlon is coming up July 25th. I'll be doing the Spudman in Burley, Idaho with a good friend. I've got some general triathlon questions, and some Spudman specific question. If you've got knowledge or experience in any of the questions, I would really appreciate the feedback.
General: How do you warm up before a triathlon? What's your go-to to loosen up your arms and legs for the swim?
General: How often do you have friends or family come to watch you race? Is it even worth inviting friends and family to come cheer you on, particularly if the race is about a 3 hour drive from everyone?
Spudman specific: I checked in the race bible and didn't find anything, and I've reached out to the organizers with this question but haven't heard back. Are ear plugs okay in the swimming section? I have a tendency to get dizzy when cold water gets in my ear. I know music isn't allowed in other sections, and I totally understand why.
Spudman specific: how much does the river actually assist you? I can swim the distance in the pool at my gym in a little over 42 minutes. How much time will the current reasonably cut down?
Spudman specific/general: I'm guessing/hoping the water is tested before race day? I read a news article about a couple of cities along the Snake River that are being investigated for loss of containment of wastewater and it making its way into the river.
General: my buddy and I are doing this as our first triathlon. We're both at different points in our levels of fitness. How much should we stick together? Is pacing difficult?
General: anything else a noob should know before race day? Any tips and tricks?
Thank you all in advance! I look forward to posting my race report in a few months!