Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon 2025: Your Complete Adventure Guide
Current as of latest update. Racing details evolve—always cross-reference with the official 2025 Athlete Guide when it drops.
What Makes This Race Special
- Official Event Name: Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon
- Date: To Be Announced (traditionally October)
- Location: Queen Ann Park, 210 E Water Street, Edenton, NC 27932
- Organizing Body: Chowan-Edenton Optimist Club
The Distances
- Paddle (Kayak): 2 miles
- Bike: 15 miles
- Run: 5k (3.1 miles)
Here's what I love about this event: it completely rewrites the triathlon rulebook. This race proves triathlons aren't just for elite swimmers with expensive bikes.
The Mission Behind the Miles
This isn't just another race—it's a community gathering with purpose. Every registration supports the Devine Intervention Cancer Fund. The Chowan-Edenton Optimist Club has created something remarkable here: a charitable fundraiser that is also the most welcoming gateway into multisport racing you'll find.
Registration Details
- Deadlines: TBA for 2025 (historically includes early-bird and race-week options)
- Costs: TBA (expect charity-focused, accessible pricing)
- Qualification Requirements: None
Game-changer: Kayaks and paddles are available for participant use upon request. Read more about preparing for your first triathlon.
The Course: What You're Actually Getting Into
Detailed 2025 course maps and elevation profiles will be published by the organizers closer to race day.
The Paddle Segment
The Water: You'll be gliding through the sheltered waters of Edenton Bay on the Chowan River, featuring calm lake conditions. The main variable is the coastal wind.
Course Layout: Typically an out-and-back or loop within the protected bay. The 2025 configuration will be announced with the official race details.
The Bike Segment
Terrain Reality Check: Flat to gently rolling rural roads through beautiful Chowan County countryside with minimal elevation gain.
Road Surface: Generally good quality rural pavement.
The Run Segment
Course Character: A scenic loop through historic downtown Edenton and park pathways.
Elevation & Surface: Predominantly flat on paved surfaces including sidewalks, streets, and park paths.
Technical Truths: What Actually Matters
The Real Challenges
- Paddle Navigation & Efficiency: Kayaking requires specific technique but is learnable with practice.
- Wind Management: Coastal breezes affect both paddle and bike segments.
- The Unique T1 Transition: The transition from kayaking to cycling demands deliberate planning.
Rules That Actually Apply
- Competition Standards: The race follows standard multisport rules.
- Important Note on Drafting: Verify if drafting is allowed in the official rules when published.
- Mandatory Equipment: CPSC-approved bicycle helmet and Coast Guard-approved PFD required.
- About Kayaks: Bring your own or request one from the organizers along with paddles and PFDs.
- Cut-Off Times: Generous to encourage completion. 2025 times TBA.
- Transition Area Standards: Standard rules apply.
Race Day Realities
The Morning Logistics
Check-In: Race morning packet pickup happens at Queen Ann Park. Timing TBA.
Transition Area: Opens at check-in and closes before the race start. Moderate participant field.
Bag Drop: Availability to be confirmed for 2025.
Transportation & Parking: Available on-site and surrounding streets in Edenton.
Spectator Access: Excellent viewing opportunities throughout Queen Ann Park and along the course.
Support Systems
- Aid Stations: Typically available on the run course.
- Technical Support: Basic mechanical assistance expected near transition area.
- Medical & Emergency: EMS and first aid positioned at key course points.
- Timing: Chip timing with live tracking availability TBA.
Environmental Factors: October in Coastal North Carolina
- Historical Weather Data: Average high: 74°F, Average low: 55°F
- Water Temperature: Mid-60s to low-70s °F
- Wind Patterns: Primary environmental variable, impacting paddle speed and bike effort.
- Local Climate Reality: Can be humid with cool starts but quick rises in temperature.
Training Smart: Preparation That Actually Works
The Timeline
8-12 weeks of consistent, sport-specific training is sufficient for most athletes.
Specific Training Requirements
Paddle Training: Practice kayak technique focusing on straight-line efficiency and turns.
The Critical Workout: Include paddle-to-bike brick sessions in your training.
Local Training Opportunities: Use Queen Ann Park for kayak practice and local rural roads for bike simulation.
Race Strategy: Tactics That Make The Difference
Paddle Tactics
Start steadily and consider wind in your navigation to minimize energy expenditure.
Transition 1 Optimization
Important: Thoroughly dry your feet before cycling to avoid blisters.
Nutrition & Hydration
Focus on pre-race nutrition and hydration on the bike. Consider using electrolyte supplements.
Equipment Recommendations
- Paddle: Quick-dry attire, sunglasses with a strap.
- Bike: Any well-maintained road, hybrid, or gravel bike. If in need, consider the Shimano 21-speed urban bike.
- Run: Standard running shoes. Explore top triathlon running shoes.
After You Cross The Line
Results: Published online post-race via the timing company's website.
Awards Ceremony: Held at the venue post-race, featuring age-group and team awards.
Qualification Implications: None, as this is a participation-focused event.
Recovery & Amenities: Post-race refreshments provided. Enjoy Edenton's restaurants and historic sites.
What We're Still Waiting to Learn
Official 2025 race date, finalized course maps, registration dates & fees, and updated Athlete Guide with specific rules, cut-off times, and support details.
Your Action Item: Monitor the Chowan-Edenton Optimist Club's official channels for definitive information.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Strategy for Paddle, Pedal, Plod
Important Date Clarification: The event is scheduled for June 3, 2026 at Queen Ann Park, Edenton, NC.
Race Logistics That Affect Your Accommodation Choice
- Early morning start typically at 9:00 AM
- Moderate participant field
- Flat to gently rolling terrain
- Expected finish times under 2 hours for most athletes
- Kayaks available upon request
What You Actually Need in Accommodation
Here's what matters based on race logistics:
- Secure bike storage or adequate in-room space for equipment
- Early breakfast service (pre-6:00 AM)
- Room refrigeration for nutrition and hydration storage
- Laundry facilities for post-race cleanup
- Proximity to Queen Ann Park
- Reliable parking for vehicles with bike racks
For specific hotel recommendations, current rates, and athlete-focused amenities for June 2026, monitor the Chowan-Edenton Optimist Club for updates.
For more insights on unique triathlons, check our guide on unique triathlon events.
What is the Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon?
The Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon is a multisport event featuring a 2-mile kayak paddle, a 15-mile bike ride, and a 5k run. It is organized by the Chowan-Edenton Optimist Club in Edenton, NC, and supports the Devine Intervention Cancer Fund.
When and where is the 2025 event scheduled to take place?
The exact date for the 2025 Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon is yet to be announced, but it traditionally occurs in October. The location is Queen Ann Park, Edenton, NC.
Do I need to bring my own kayak?
No, you don't need to bring your own kayak. The organizers provide kayaks, paddles, and life jackets upon request, making it accessible for participants who do not own the equipment.
Are there any qualification requirements to enter the race?
There are no qualification requirements to participate in the Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon, making it an accessible event for beginners and experienced athletes alike.
What are the environmental conditions like in Edenton during October?
Typically, Edenton in October has an average high of 74°F (23°C) and a low of 55°F (13°C), with moderate chances of precipitation and potential coastal breezes affecting the paddle and bike segments.
How should I train for the Paddle, Pedal, Plod Triathlon?
Training for 8-12 weeks focusing on sport-specific skills for paddling, biking, and running is recommended. Include paddle-to-bike brick workouts in your routine to adapt to the upper-body to lower-body transition.
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