Paddle Segment: Embrace the Water Differently

Venue & Conditions: Picture yourself launching from Queen Ann Park into Edenton Bay's sheltered embrace, where the Chowan River creates a protected aquatic playground. You'll encounter flat water with minimal current—think calm, not chaotic. The wild card? Coastal winds that can conjure chop, particularly from the north and northeast.

Course Layout: An out-and-back or loop course within the bay's protection. Specific 2025 layout TBA.

Bike Segment: Pure Carolina Rolling

Terrain & Elevation: The flat to gently rolling rural roads of Chowan County are a cyclist's meditation. With total elevation gain likely under 500 feet, this isn't about conquering mountains—it's about finding your rhythm through authentic countryside.

Road Surface: Generally excellent country roads with the normal character marks of rural pavement.

Run Segment: Historic Finale

Course Type: A scenic loop weaving through downtown Edenton's historical tapestry and park pathways.

Elevation & Surface: Flat to gently rolling on civilized surfaces—paved sidewalks, streets, and park paths that let you focus on your finish, not your footing.

Note: Detailed course maps and elevation profiles for 2025 await publication closer to race day.

The Real Challenges (And How to Conquer Them)

1. Paddle Navigation: Mastering straight-line efficiency and crisp turns in a kayak is its own art form—one that rewards practice.
2. Wind Exposure: Coastal breezes play across both paddle and bike segments, adding a dynamic element to your strategy.
3. T1 Complexity: Here's where this race diverges from tradition. Transitioning from paddle to bike involves a unique gear sequence and—trust me on this—thoroughly dry feet before those socks go on.

Competition Framework

The event follows standard multisport protocols for bike and run segments, thoughtfully adapted for the paddle component. Important note: Drafting on the bike is likely permitted—but confirm this in the 2025 athlete guide.

Equipment Essentials

• Mandatory gear:
  • CPSC-approved bicycle helmet
  • Coast Guard-approved PFD (life jacket) worn throughout the paddle
• Kayak options: Bring your own or request one from the organizers—paddle and PFD included with borrowed boats.
• Cut-off Times: Generously designed to celebrate completion over speed. Specific 2025 times TBA.
• Transition Area: Standard protocols apply—no riding in the transition zone, rack your bike in your designated spot. The layout flows naturally within Queen Ann Park's footprint.

Morning Operations

• Check-in: Race morning at Queen Ann Park. Precise timing TBA.
• Transition Area: Opens at check-in, closes before the starting horn. The moderate participant field keeps things manageable and stress-free.
• Parking & Spectators: On-site parking at Queen Ann Park plus surrounding street options. Here's the beauty—spectators enjoy exceptional access across Queen Ann Park, the waterfront, and downtown Edenton, creating a genuine community atmosphere across all three segments.

On-Course Support

• Aid Stations: Anticipated on the run course (water and sports drink). Confirm bike course support availability for 2025.
• Technical & Medical: Basic bike mechanical assistance near transition. EMS and first aid strategically positioned at the venue and along the course.
• Timing: Chip timing expected. Live tracking availability TBA.

Your Preparation Timeline

8-12 weeks of consistent training positions most athletes for success. This isn't about reinventing yourself—it's about building specific competencies. If you're new to multisport racing, check out our comprehensive 8-week training plan for sprint triathlons, which provides an excellent foundation for this type of event.

Training Priorities

Paddle Practice: Here's what many athletes overlook—kayaking efficiency isn't intuitive. Dedicate time to straight-line paddling, clean turns, and mount/dismount drills. Build upper body and core endurance through progressive sessions.

Brick Workouts: Absolutely essential. Beyond standard bike-to-run transitions, I strongly recommend paddle-to-bike bricks to internalize that unique T1 experience. Understanding key triathlon training drills will help you master these transitions efficiently.

Local Training Resources: Queen Ann Park provides direct water access for paddle rehearsals. The rural roads west of Edenton perfectly simulate bike course conditions.

Paddle Tactics

Start with disciplined steadiness to establish your rhythm. Factor wind direction into your navigation strategy from stroke one. Practice explosive kayak beaching and exits—seconds saved here multiply across transitions.

Transition 1 Mastery

Keep your setup minimal and logical. Have a small towel ready and dry those feet thoroughly before socks and shoes. This isn't optional—wet feet in cycling shoes create friction and discomfort that compounds over 15 miles.

Fueling Strategy

With expected finish times under 2 hours, success hinges on pre-race nutrition and bike hydration. A single gel during the bike or early run typically suffices—keep it simple. For optimal hydration support, consider electrolyte supplements designed for endurance athletes.

Equipment Wisdom

Paddle: Quick-dry clothing, sunglasses with retention strap

Bike: Any well-maintained road or hybrid bike performs beautifully here. Save your money—high-end aero equipment isn't necessary. If you're looking to upgrade your ride, explore our guide to the best triathlon bikes for 2024. For tracking your training progress, a reliable GPS fitness watch can be invaluable.

Run: