More of the same from a "Newbie"

[Chuck Z]

I recently signed up as a member and am impressed by the number of posts and of the experience levels of the new and long time members. I would have a real hard time trying to get all of this helpful insight/info from any other source.Looks like I picked the right place to start!

I have just a couple of questions to start with( and many more to follow..you can count on that)

1) I am signed up for the Ashtabula Tri for my first one out of the gate and then for the GCT in August( sprint only) . Do I need a wet suit for these events? I looked at the pictures on the site of last years event and it seems that most were wearing them.

2) When helping the club out as a volunteer at an aid station during a Tri, what are the general duties/ responsibilities of the member? I am a paramedic and would like to help out when I can

Thanks for any insight and I look forward to meeting the members at the various events

[jetlink]

Hello Chuck,

Glad to hear that you are now a member of the CTC. I think you will find it to be a very good source of information and a great way to meet some very good people. Anyhow, the wetsuit is probably a purchase that you will want to make at some point if you find that triathlons are to your liking.....which you probably will. But, I would do at least one or two tri's before shelling out the $$$$ for a wetsuit just to make sure that this is something you really want to continue to do - just an idea I guess.
The duties/responsibilities of a volunteer will depend on the race/race director. Generally, you'll just do whatever the station is designed to do....whether it be hand out drinks,goo's or even direct participants.
Best of luck to you in your future races....I'd also suggest trying to attend some of the training sessions, especially the ones for the GCT - there is actually a session this Saturday. Take care and see you around.

[Angie]

I agree with Dave about the wetsuit. I do not usually wear a wetsuit in a sprint... the little time you gain with the buoyancy factor is less than it will take you to get it off in transition. Some people feel more comfortable with the wetsuit on.. that is why you see people wearing them. Don't invest in one now... wait as Dave suggested.

If you want to volunteer for some club activities... check out the 'get involved' page. www.clevetriclub.com/get-involved.html
As a club, we are sponsoring some aid stations in a few races this summer. Looking forward to meeting you. ANGIE

[Charlie]

Make sure to do some open water swims in the lake before the races. Neither are protected by break walls and have a history of waves. Really kind of fun, but nothing like a pool.

The only gear you must have have is a bike, helmet, running shoes, and a swim suit. Goggles, sunglasses and a water bottle, are very good ideas.

[Brooks Modie]

Hey Chuck,

Let me congratulate you on joining the Club. As you already know, there are many levels of tri-geeks here and all are more than willing to help you out. I started out as a newbie not that long ago and have learned most of what I know here on the forum and at club events. If you plan on volunteering at any of the races this summer please let me know and I will try and find a place where you will experience a lot. Volunteering is a great outlet for learning how a tri runs.

Brooks