The Long Course Weekend - FAQ's

If you have any questions, from triathlon training schedules and nutrition to what to expect on the day, please feel free to send them to Fran@activitywales.com and we will do our best to answer.

Long Course Weekend - FAQ's

Q: Can I enter just 1 or 2 events?
A: Yes and No! Great answer I know. To get the long course triathlon medal you will have to complete all 3 and at their long course distances. However, we have also split the long course triathlon into 3 events: The Wales Swim, The Wales Sportive and The Wales Marathon - you can enter as many of these as you wish and any distance and be part of the weekend. So as I said yes and no! Hope this makes sense.

The Wales Marathon - FAQ's

Q: I know this might sound really silly, but how far is The Wales Marathon?
A: Not at all. The Wales Marathon is 26.2 miles and the Wales Half Marathon is 13.1. The course has now been officially measured. Why not check it out on our course page

Q: Do I have to be a member of a club to enter?
A: Totally not! Both The Wales Marathon and The Wales Half Marathon is open to all club and non club runners. If you affiliated to a club you will get a small discount though! If you are entering lots of events it may be worth looking at joining a club. It makes the longer runs more social too!!

Q: Will there be timing chips?
A: Yes, there will be. They need to be worn on your left ankle and are issued at registration.

Q: How many people are you expecting to run the marathon and is there a closing date for registration?
A: We are expecting a large number to attend over the weekend including both athletes and spectators. The closing date will be as close as practical to the event, to make final event arrangements. This date will be published closer to the time.

Q: Will there be drinks stations on the route?
A: Yes, they will be every 3 miles and they will alternate between a drink and feed station. However, if you would like to carry any energy gels to keep you going, for your personal needs, please feel free to do so.

Q: Is there a minimum age for runners?
A: Yes, the minimum age is 18 years for the full marathon and 17 years for the half.

Q: Please can you advise whether the run is mainly on roads or is multi-terrain?
A: The route is on roads and has some spectacular scenery.

Q: We are keen runners, however we are by no means 'elite'. Is the marathon extremely competitive or can people of all abilities take part?
A: We have all types of client taking part, for some it is their first marathon and we also have elite runners. We welcome all levels of runners!

The Wales Sportive - FAQ's

Q: What support will be available to the riders around the course?
A: There will be mechanical back-up and medical back-up. There will also be food/water stations on course.

Q: Is there a minimum age to enter The Wales Sportive?
A: There's no minimum age but all riders under 18 must have a Parental Consent Form completed. All riders under 16 must have that form completed AND be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian. Max of 2 under 16's per adult.

Q: Is going to be timed using timing chips?
A: The event is not a race – however, there will be chips so athletes can see their times.

The Wales Swim - FAQ's

Q: How is the start organised?
A: It will be a mass start, therefore you will need to get into position prior to the starting gun. If you think you are in with a chance, get to the front; If you are about middle and fancy a bun fight, head for the middle - If not wait at the back!

Q: How do you marshall / ensure safety on a swim?
A: At the Wales Swim we will have support boats and kayaks with qualified life saving personnel on hand. There will be a race briefing prior to the race, but any problems, it is standard to lie on your back, raise your hand and we will pick you out the water immediately. It looks worse than it is........sometimes!!

Q: What is the minimum age to enter The Wales Swim?
A: The minimum age is 14yrs.

Q: Do we have to wear a wetsuit?
A: 3800m race is wetsuit mandatory and open to athletes over the age of 18. For the 1900m race a wetsuit optional (mandatory for under 18 years) and it is open to athletes over the age of 14, however a letter of consent is required from their parent or guardian.