Whether you’re new to the sport of triathlon or new to the Life Time Tri Minneapolis, we want to make your experience the best it can be. That’s why we’ve assembled a list of frequently asked questions ranging from general information to the nitty-gritty details about race day.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. Do I need to read my race rules?

Yes. It is imperative that you thoroughly read the race rules and study the course map. Be as informed as you can be before race day.

2. What are the entry fees for the Life Time Tri Minneapolis this year?

Entry fees are published here. Remember, register early to receive the best pricing!

3. What are the distances for each race?

Sprint Distance

• .25 mile swim
• 15 mile bike
• 3 mile run

International Distance

• 1.5k swim
• 40k bike
• 10k run

4. Can a relay team compete in the sprint distance?

Yes.

5. Are pets allowed?

No dogs or other pets are allowed in the event area, as they can be a danger to competitors, volunteers and spectators.

6. Where can I find USAT rules?

Official USAT rules are available at www.usatriathlon.org. Otherwise, you can visit the Race Rules page on our website.

7. What products will be available on the bike and run course and at the finish line?

Water at the completion of the swim. Water and energy drinks will be provided on the bike, run and at the finish line.

8. Who is your host hotel?

Our Host Hotel and Lodging Partner is the Best Western Dakota Ridge Hotel in Eagan. Details available here.
Toll Free Reservation: 800.624.2888

9. Where can I find triathlon training classes?

Triathlon training classes will be available at select Life Time destinations. Visit the Life Time Endurance website or Facebook page for more information on triathlon training programs.

10. I'm interested in having an expo booth at your event. Who should I contact?

Please contact Matt Rapaport at 773.325.9537 or mrapaport@lifetimefitness.com.

11. Can I wear a headset during any portion of the event?

No. Wearing personal stereo devices are illegal and will result in disqualification.

12. Will there be a lost & found?

Yes. Lost and found is located at the Information tent north of the transition area.

13. What time will the sprint course start?

The sprint distance will begin at approximately 8:37 a.m.

14. What time will the international course start?

7 a.m.

15. Is there an elite amateur wave and division?

Yes. We offer an elite amateur division for those under 40 and an a Master elite amateur division for those 40 and over.

To enter as an elite, you must have reached the elite qualifying standard within the last year (2:10 for men; 2:30 for women). The time must be verifiable and from a sanctioned USAT International Distance Triathlon.

16. How do I become a volunteer for your event?

Online registration is available at MPLSTri.com for a variety of volunteer positions. All volunteers receive a free T-shirt. Sign up here.

17. How many participants will the Life Time Tri Minneapolis allow?

3,000 total participants.

18. Is there a massage area for participants at the race site?

Yes. Life Time massage therapists will be available for post-race massages.

REGISTRATION

1. How do I register?

Click the "Register Online" button on the website to register online.

2. Can I register on race morning?

No.

3. What are the entry fees for the Life Time Tri Minneapolis?

Entry fees are published here. Remember, register early to receive the best pricing!

4. Can I transfer from the sprint course to international or vice versa (or make other changes to my registration)?

Please contact Athlete Services at mnevents@lifetimefitness.com for any questions regarding changes. 

5. May I give or sell my # to someone else?

No. All entries are non-transferable.

6. How do I register for the Pro Race?

Registered and licensed professional triathletes can enter the pro race via a special online reg process HERE. Contact Athlete Services at mnevents@liftetimefitness.com for more information.

7. Do you accept phone-in registrations?

No. We only accept online registrations or entries received by mail.

8. Are there any benefits to registering early?

Yes, you are guaranteed a spot in the Life Time Tri Minneapolis! Plus, everyone registering early receives the best pricing of the year.

9. Can I get my entry fee refunded?

No. Refunds are not available.

10. Will I receive a confirmation packet?

No. All confirmations will be sent via email so please have your correct email address or you will not rec. any race communication.

PACKET PICKUP

1. Can I pick up a race packet for a friend, coworker?

No. Each participant is required to pick up their own packet. No exceptions! You must have your photo ID!

2. Where is race packet pickup?

Packet pickup will be at the race site, Lake Nokomis. 

3. Is there packet pickup race morning?

No. All race packets must be picked up prior to race day at the Multisport Expo at Lake Nokomis. 

4. Can I pick up race packets for my relay team members?

No, each member of the relay team needs to show their ID & pick up their own packet.

5. Do I need a driver's license or USAT license for packet pickup?

Yes. A photo ID (current driver's license, certified state ID or passport) is required at packet pickup. If you are a USAT annual member you must present your current member card, otherwise you will be required to pay a $12 single-event licensing fee.

6. What will be included in the race packets?

Packets include: race numbers for your bike, helmet and body; swim cap; race information; rules and sponsor-related materials. You will also pick up your T-shirt and timing chip at the expo.

SWIM

1. What are the distances?

Sprint Distance - .25 miles
International Distance - .93 miles

2. What is the water temperature on race morning?

Water temperature will be checked by USAT officials on race morning and will be announced during pre-race announcements.

3. What are the rules for requesting assistance from lifeguards?

If you need to rest during the swim, you may hold onto the rescue tubes and safety boats used by lifeguards along the swim course. However, you will be disqualified if you use one of these devices to assist yourself in forward progress.

4. Which equipment is needed for the swim?

Swim cap (provided in the race packet), goggles or mask (optional), and swimsuit or tri suit. Wetsuits are legal under USAT rules if the water temperature is 78 degrees or less. When the water temperature is 79 degrees to 83 degrees you may wear a wetsuit but you will be ineligible for age group awards. No wetsuits are allowed when the water temperature is 84 degrees or higher. Fins & other propulsion devices are not allowed.

BIKE

1. What is the distance for each course?

Sprint Distance - 15 miles
International Distance - 24.8 miles

2. What equipment is mandatory for the bike section?

A bike and a bike helmet are required. Your bike must be in good working condition with your bike race number properly attached. Your bike helmet must be ANSI- or SNELL-certified and it must have your number sticker properly attached. We recommend having your bicycle checked through a reputable bike shop prior to the event. We also advise to bring along all necessary equipment for changing a flat tire or making minor adjustments to your bike.

3. Will drafting be allowed?

No. You must stay three bike lengths behind the rider in front of you. When passing, you need to complete the pass within 15 seconds. If you are being passed, you must drop back three bike lengths from the person passing you. Riding side by side within two meters of a rider is illegal. If you are caught drafting, you will be penalized. See race rules for more information.

4. Are you allowed to use a mountain bike?

Yes. You may use a mountain bike, hybrid/city bike, road bike, single-speed bike, or triathlon bike. No motorized bikes, tandems, fixed-gear bikes, or recumbent bikes are allowed. Fairings (windshields) are not allowed.

RUN

1. What is the distance for each course?

Sprint Distance - 3 miles
International Distnace - 10k  (6.2 miles)

2. How many water stops will be on the run?

International distance triathletes can receive water and energy drinks a total of six times and short-distance triathletes can receive water a total of three times.

3. What mandatory equipment do I need for the run?

Race number and AMB Activ Transponder. Race numbers are to be attached on the front of your body and AMB Active Transponder must be securely strapped to your left ankle.

TRANSITION

1. What is the t-area (transition area)?

The t-area is a common area where participants rack their bike, run and swim gear before and during the race. It is also your assigned spot where you will transition from swim to bike and bike to run. Relay teams have a designated region in the t-area where they exchange their timing chip strap from swimmer to cyclist and cyclist to runner.

2. Who is allowed in the t-area?

Race participants who have been body marked, have attached their bike race number to their bike, and t-area volunteers and race officials are the only people allowed into the t-area. Please, no family members or friends in the t-area.

3. What time does the t-area open and close in the morning?

The t-area opens at 4:30 a.m. and closes at 6:45 a.m.