What Makes This Race Special

The T100 Triathlon Gold Coast is not just another triathlon; it's a weekend where age-groupers and world-class pros share the same iconic terrain.

• When: Typically held in May (Always double-check the official T100 website for your specific year—trust me, you don't want to show up on the wrong weekend!)
• Where: Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
• What It Means: A premier stop on the global T100 Triathlon World Tour

Race Formats That Fit Your Ambition:

• T100 PRO Race (Draft-Legal): 2km Swim / 80km Bike / 18km Run
• Age-Group/Amateur Race (Non-Drafting): Olympic distance (1.5km / 40km / 10km) and Sprint distance (750m / 20km / 5km)

Getting Your Spot:

• Registration: Exclusively online through the official T100 website
• Investment: Tiered pricing from AUD $200-$300+ for age-groupers (prices climb as race day approaches—early bird catches the wave!)
• Reality Check: Age-group slots vanish quickly. The PRO race? That's invitation-only territory.

The Course: What You're Really Signing Up For

The Swim: Where Ocean Meets Opportunity

Picture this: the Pacific Ocean off Surfers Paradise beach. Beautiful? Absolutely. Gentle? Not always.

• Setting: Open ocean with a rectangular loop course running parallel to shore
• Conditions: Waves, currents, and surf that demand respect
• The Make-or-Break Moment: That surf entry and the initial scramble to the first buoy—it's high-intensity chaos that separates the composed from the frazzled

For open water preparation tips, check out our guide on mastering open water swimming challenges.

The Bike: Fast, Flat, and Fantastically Challenging

Don't let "flat" fool you into thinking "easy."

• Terrain: Predominantly flat, closed sections of the Gold Coast Highway
• Elevation: Minimal gain—meteorology is your opponent, not topography
• Surface: Excellent, smooth asphalt (your bike will thank you)
• The Real Challenge: Those predictable southeasterly seabreezes create relentless headwinds and crosswinds that test both your aerodynamic setup and mental fortitude

Consider investing in aerodynamic tri suits to minimize drag during those challenging wind sections.

The Run: Where Crowds Become Your Fuel

• Course: Flat, multi-lap route along the Surfers Paradise esplanade
• Elevation: Negligible
• Surface: Paved paths perfect for rhythm
• Secret Weapon: The crowd support here is genuinely exceptional—let it carry you home

The Rules (Yes, They Really Matter)

• Governed By: World Triathlon (WT) rules—strictly enforced, no exceptions
• Drafting—Know Before You Go:
  • PRO Race: Draft-legal (pack tactics allowed)
  • Age-Group Race: Non-drafting. The 12-meter draft zone (7 meters at slower speeds) isn't a suggestion—it's law.

For a deeper understanding of drafting regulations, read our comprehensive article on Ironman's stricter drafting rules for 2025.

• Cut-off Times: Strictly enforced. The official Athlete Guide has the details—read it like your race depends on it.
• Transition Protocol: Mandatory bike racking occurs the day before.

Race Day Logistics: The Stuff That Saves Your Sanity

Pre-Race Operations

• Check-in & Bike Racking: This happens the day before. Use this time wisely—walk through your transitions, visualize your flow, eliminate surprises.
• Getting There: Extensive road closures make driving on race morning a nightmare.
• For Your Supporters: Excellent viewing areas along the multi-lap run course and finish line festival.

On-Course Support

• Aid Stations: Approximately every 1.5-2km on the run with water, electrolytes, and nutrition.
• Technical Help: Basic mechanical support available for flat tires and common issues.
• Medical Care: Comprehensive services and first aid stations throughout.

What Mother Nature Has in Store

• Typical Conditions: Late autumn with temperatures ranging 14-23°C (57-73°F)
• Forecast: Generally sunny with low rain probability
• Water Temperature: Usually wetsuit-legal at 21-23°C (70-73°F)—final call made by race director before start
• Wind Patterns: Predictable southeasterly seabreeze
• Sun Exposure: High UV index—waterproof, high-factor sunscreen is essential

Preparing to Perform: Your Training Roadmap

Timeline and Focus

• Recommended Preparation: 12-16 weeks of structured training

Swim Priorities:

• Open water sessions in choppy conditions
• Sighting practice
• Mass start simulations

Don't forget proper swim gear—quality anti-fog swim goggles can make all the difference.

Bike Strategy:

• Sustained Time Trial efforts
• Wind-specific training
• Bike-handling skills in crosswinds

Run Development:

• Brick sessions (running off the bike)
• Practice maintaining form when fatigued

Race Day Strategy That Works

Swim Approach: Seed yourself honestly and swim your own race.

Bike Wisdom: Pace evenly. Stay within non-drafting rules.

Transition Efficiency: Practice your routine. Seconds saved here are earned.

Nutrition & Hydration: Stick to your pre-tested plan. Consider using electrolyte supplements.

After You Cross That Finish Line

• Results: Published rapidly online through the official timing company
• Awards Ceremony: A genuine highlight with age-group awards distributed in the finish area
• Recovery Zone: Dedicated space with refreshments for post-race recuperation
• Local Perks: Surfers Paradise delivers on cafes, restaurants, and accommodations perfect for celebration and recovery