Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon 2025/2026: Your Gateway to Multisport Racing
The Big Picture
Here's something most people don't realize about triathlons: the swim is often what stops them from even trying. I've lost count of conversations that go, "I'd love to do a triathlon, but..." followed by some anxiety about open water. That's exactly why the Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon exists—and why it might be the perfect starting point you've been waiting for.
- Official Event Name: Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon
- Organizing Body: Chowan-Edenton Optimist Club (147 Old Hertford Rd, Edenton, NC)
- Charity Beneficiary: Devine Intervention Cancer Fund
- Location: Queen Ann Park, 210 E Water Street, Edenton, NC 27932
What Makes This Different:
- Paddle (Kayak): 2 miles in sheltered waters
- Bike: 15 miles on rural roads
- Run: 5k (3.1 miles) through historic downtown
The Mission Behind It: This isn't just another race—it's specifically designed to remove the biggest barrier keeping people from multisport racing. By replacing the traditional swim with kayaking, the organizers have created an accessible entry point for beginners and anyone who's ever felt anxious about swimming. You get all the challenge, all the accomplishment, none of the open-water panic. If you're looking for more alternative triathlon experiences, this race format represents a growing trend in making multisport accessible.
Here's What We're Waiting On: The 2025/2026 event date is currently unconfirmed. We're looking at potential windows of October 2025 or June 3, 2026. Keep your eyes on official channels for the announcement—this is the critical detail we're all watching for.
What You Need to Know About Entry:
- Registration Deadlines: To be announced
- Costs: Coming soon
- Qualification Requirements: None whatsoever—this is open to everyone
- The Kayak Question: Here's the beauty of it—kayaks, paddles, and PFDs (life jackets) are available upon request. Whether you can bring your own kayak is still being confirmed, but either way, you're covered.
The Technical Details That Matter
What the Course Actually Looks Like
Quick note: We're still waiting on detailed course maps and elevation profiles.
- The Paddle Segment: The sheltered waters of Edenton Bay and the Chowan River. Generally calm and protected conditions—think controlled environment, not battling ocean swells. That said, coastal breezes can create some chop, so it won't be completely glass-smooth. A 2-mile course (specific layout coming soon).
- The Bike Segment: Flat to gently rolling rural roads through Chowan County. Expected to be in good condition (we'll confirm specifics). Elevation profile not yet published—but "flat to gently rolling" suggests nothing dramatic.
- The Run Segment: A 5k loop on paved surfaces. Through historic downtown Edenton—picture charming architecture, not industrial sprawl. Predominantly flat terrain. Paved roads and paths.
The Rules You'll Need to Follow
The complete rulebook is coming in the official Athlete Guide.
- During the Paddle: PFD (life jacket) is mandatory—non-negotiable for safety. Rules about personal versus provided kayaks are being finalized.
- On the Bike: Standard triathlon regulations apply. Drafting rules and how strictly they'll be enforced? Still being determined. Make sure your bike is race-ready with proper maintenance and quality components.
- Cut-off Times: Not yet specified—stay tuned.
- Transition Area: Layout and specific requirements (bike racking, gear organization) coming soon.
- Equipment Musts: Helmet required on the bike—this is universal. No wetsuit rules to worry about (kayak, remember?).
Making Race Day Smooth
How Race Morning Works
Check-in: Head to Queen Ann Park on race morning—arrive early (specific times to be announced)
Transition Area: Set up at Queen Ann Park. Access windows and exact layout details coming
Bag Drop: Services not yet confirmed
Timing: Expect chip timing—modern, accurate, automated
Parking: Available at or near Queen Ann Park. Specific arrangements being finalized
Spectator Access: Excellent viewing opportunities in downtown Edenton for the run finish. Designated areas to be confirmed.
Support When You Need It
Aid Stations: Confirmed for the run course with water and electrolytes. Bike course stations? Being determined. Consider bringing your own electrolyte supplements for optimal hydration.
Technical Support: Basic mechanical support expected—details coming
Medical Facilities: On-course medical personnel plus a dedicated medical tent at the finish
Emergency Services: Local EMS on standby throughout
What Mother Nature Might Throw at You
Weather Reality Check (Historical Data):
| Condition | If It's in October | If It's in June |
|---|---|---|
| Air Temperature | High ~74°F (23°C), Low ~55°F (13°C) | Warm & Humid |
| Water Temperature | Mid-60s to low-70s °F (18-22°C) | Warmer |
| The Main Factor | Cool mornings, moderate humidity | Heat & sun exposure become critical |
| Wind | Coastal breezes possible, affecting paddle & bike | Coastal breezes possible |
The Climate Truth: Those coastal wind patterns? They're not just background noise—they can significantly impact your effort on both the paddle and bike segments. Come prepared for variable conditions, because coastal weather writes its own rules.
How to Actually Prepare
Training: The Real Timeline
Recommended Preparation: 8-12 weeks of consistent training for beginners—not next week, not "I'll wing it". If you're completely new to multisport racing, check out our comprehensive beginner training guide.
- Kayak Efficiency: Practice finding a sustainable paddle rhythm and technique on calm water. This isn't about power—it's about sustainability.
- Brick Sessions: Here's what nobody tells you—paddle-to-bike transitions (P2B bricks) are essential. Your legs feel different coming off a kayak versus coming out of the water. Practice this weird sensation.
- Cycling: Train on flat to rolling terrain. Build steady endurance, not sprint power.
- Running: Off-the-bike runs are crucial for teaching your legs to adapt.
Where to Train Locally:
- Find protected local waterways for kayak practice.
- Seek out rural roads that mimic the course conditions.
- Get familiar with the historic downtown area where you'll be running.
Your Race Strategy (The Stuff That Actually Works)
The Paddle: Start steady—I mean really steady. Conserve energy like you're rationing it. Pay attention to wind direction because headwinds will punish overconfidence and require significantly more effort.
Transition 1 (Paddle-to-Bike):
- The Critical Step Everyone Forgets: Dry your feet thoroughly. Wet feet + cycling shoes = blisters that'll haunt you for days.
- Organize your gear sequentially for speed—think assembly line, not treasure hunt.
The Bike Segment: Treat this as strategic recovery, not a time trial. Maintain a manageable pace, hydrate consistently, and prepare your body for the run. This is also your easiest opportunity for nutrition intake—use it wisely. A reliable GPS bike computer can help you maintain proper pacing.
The Run Segment: Start conservatively for the first mile to find your actual pace (not your optimistic pace). Then leverage that crowd support in the final stretch when your brain starts negotiating with your legs.
Nutrition and Hydration:
- Fuel properly pre-race—no experiments on race morning.
- Prioritize hydration and calorie intake on the bike.
- Use those run aid stations—they're there for a reason.
Equipment You'll Actually Need:
- Quick-dry triathlon or athletic clothing.
- UV-protection sunglasses—the sun doesn't care about your race goals.
- A mechanically sound bicycle (not "probably fine").
- Broken-in, comfortable running shoes—race day is not break-in day. Consider investing in quality running shoes designed for speed and comfort.
- Basic bike repair kit: tube, CO2, tire levers.
- A towel for drying feet in T1 (see blister comment above).
What is the Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon?
The Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon is a multisport event designed as an entry point for beginners into triathlons by replacing the traditional swim segment with a paddle segment using kayaks. It includes a 2-mile paddle, a 15-mile bike ride, and a 5k run through Edenton, NC.
Who organizes the Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon?
The event is organized by the Chowan-Edenton Optimist Club and supports the Devine Intervention Cancer Fund.
When will the triathlon take place?
The exact date for the 2025/2026 triathlon is unconfirmed, but potential windows are October 2025 or June 3, 2026.
Is swimming required in the triathlon?
No, swimming is not required. The event replaces the swim segment with a paddle segment using kayaks in sheltered waters.
Are there qualification requirements to enter the event?
There are no qualification requirements. The event is open to everyone without specific entry barriers.
Will equipment be provided for participants?
Yes, kayaks, paddles, and PFDs (life jackets) will be available upon request. Rules about bringing personal kayaks are still being finalized.
What kind of support is available during the race?
The event will have aid stations on the run course, potential technical support for bikes, medical facilities on-site, and local EMS support.
What are the recommended accommodations for participants?
Hayes Tavern and Edenton Harbor Inn Marina & Waterman's Lodge are recommended for their proximity and athlete-friendly amenities. It's advised to book accommodations early.
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