Triathlon Frequently Asked Questions
**Note: Some event details subject to change. Please check back before the event.**
If this is a “law enforcement/public agency challenge”, can anyone participate?
Yes, anyone with a photo ID over the age of 16 can participate. Minors must have parents present. This event is being put on by law enforcement to promote camaraderie and challenge ALL agencies to gain awareness and show support for victims of sex trafficking.
What is needed to participate?
You will need a bike and a kayak, both of which may be available for rent from businesses in the Chester area. Please reference our listing for local rental businesses.
Can I register the day of the event?
This event can’t support an unlimited number of participants so we anticipate having to shut down registration in the weeks before the event.
What is the last day to register to receive a shirt and participation medal?
Please register at least three weeks prior to the event to ensure you get SWAG. Our Facebook page (Courage Triathlon, Lake Almanor CA) will provide info on a specific cutoff date as the event grows near.
Please reference the COURAGE TRIATHLON Course Map provided on this site and PACKET PICKUP AND RACE DAY DIRECTIONS for more clarity on some of the following questions.
Is the packet pick-up and the start at the same place?
On race day YES but the Friday evening before NO. Packet pickup on race day will be at Plumas Pines Resort, (Station 1 on map) 3000 Almanor Dr West starting at 0800. On the Friday evening before the race from 4pm-7pm it will be at Station 2. Bring ID please.
When/where do we pick up our packets?
Early packet pick-up will be at the USFS Almanor Campground Boat Launch Parking Lot (Station 2) on the Friday evening before the event from 4-7pm. We strongly recommend picking up packets then. On race morning, packet pickup will be at the Plumas Pines Resort, Station 1.
Can I drop off my bike/kayak before getting my packet?
NO, you need to adhere race stickers that are found in your packet to your equipment before dropping them off.
Is it easy to find my way to the event and equipment drop off areas?
This is a rural area. Some areas of the event do not have addresses or cell service. GPS directions have proven to be unreliable. Please reference the map provided for details and mileage.
What should I do on race morning?
First, you will need to have picked up your packet before you do anything else. The numbers in your packet are made to attach to your kayak and your bike for identification purposes. Once you have picked up your packet (at Station 1) and attached the numbers to your race equipment, drop off your bike and then kayak at Station 2 in the trailers we have staged to haul kayaks. DUE TO OUR AGREEMENT WITH PG&E, PUBLIC CAN NO LONGER ACCESS STATION 3, THE BIKE/KAYAK TRANSITION AREA (ROCKY POINT GROUP CAMPGROUND) ON RACE DAY. If you are a on a team and you are the bike rider, you may keep your bike with you at Station 1 for the opening ceremonies and then ride .8 mile to the run/bike transition area (Station 2).
How early can I stage my bike/kayak on Saturday morning before the race begins?
You may begin staging equipment at 8am at Station 2.
Will my kayak be safe overnight on Friday after I pick up my packet?
Yes, we have ensured that all kayaks have dedicated volunteers guarding them. At no time will there be no one at the campground.
Can I have my loved ones wait for me or see me off at Station 3?
Unfortunately per our agreement with PG&E and for safety reasons we can’t have the public entering the Rocky Point South Group campground. We will have shuttles to drop off and pick up team members from Station 3 and we’ll have plenty of photographers there to capture the excitement.
Can we have 2 people on a team?
Yes, a team can consist of 2 or 3 (but no more) members. The price for the team remains the same regardless.
Can I use a watercraft other than a kayak?
Yes, any non-motorized, paddle driven watercraft can be used for the 4.1 mile kayak portion. This DOES NOT INCLUDE SCULLING BOATS OR ANY OAR DRIVEN BOAT..
Could the event be subject to cancellation due to poor weather?
The event will be held rain or shine.
Can I use my mountain bike on the paved trail?
Yes, mountain or street bicycles can be used. NO MOTORIZED OR ELECTRIC BIKES ARE PERMITTED.
Is the trail easy?
The trail is paved with slight hills and dips. There are some significant curves which may cause problems for those going too fast. Caution is advised throughout. Reduce speed around curves and watch for other trail users.
What should I wear?
Wear comfortable clothing that won’t hinder your ability to perform but be prepared for the changing temperatures; temps could be cool in the morning and very hot in the afternoon. Rowing gloves and water shoes or tennis shoes are recommended for kayakers. Helmets must be worn by bikers and floatation devices and (per California State Law) whistles must worn by kayakers.
I’m afraid of tipping in my kayak. What happens if I do?
Any time you are in a watercraft, no matter how stable, you should plan for the possibility of capsizing or becoming wet. Although we do have water safeties standing by, YOU ARE YOUR GREATEST AID in this situation. For this reason we ask you refrain from drinking while rowing and we ask that you follow the rules and wear your safety equipment. Don’t panic, we’ll help if you can’t get back into your vessel. Before you begin, be aware of items in your boat that you want to keep safe. Put your cell phone and other important items that you are bringing in a waterproof floatation sack. You may find these at any sporting goods store.
Is there any mandatory equipment?
Yes, there is mandated safety gear that must be worn. Helmets must be worn by bicyclists. Floatation vests and whistles must be worn by kayakers. No headphones are allowed during the bicycle portion due to safety concerns. Failure to recognize these safety measures will result in disqualification.
Will food be provided?
Meals will not be provided, however we will be providing end-of-race replenishing snacks. The Plumas Pines Restaurant has a lunch and dinner menu.
What will be provided at the aid stations?
Aid stations along the course will have minor first aid supplies and water. Along with these things, the end-of-race aid station will have snacks.
Will medical staff be present?
Yes, we have numerous trained medical staff standing by throughout the course.
Where do I park during the race?
There will be parking behind the Plumas Pines Store. Follow the signs. Parking attendants will be assisting.
Will the course be marked?
The course will be clear and almost all of the run/bike portions will be along the paved, double-track Almanor Recreation Trail.
How will the kayak section be marked?
Kayakers will remain close to the shore, rowing in a Northwest direction (with the shoreline on the left) until they reach the clearly marked landing zone just past the Plumas Pines dock. (Volunteers will assist participants as they get out of their kayaks.)
Are headphones allowed?
For safety reasons we can’t allow headphones during the bike portion.
Is there an after-race party?
We will have an award ceremony. The Plumas Pines Resort stays open late and there will be live music in the evening.
Is there lodging near?
YYes, there are many options for lodging, including motels, cabins, and campgrounds. Please reference attached listings for local overnight accommodations.
What happens to my bike and kayak after I finish the race?
Volunteers will be moving bikes back to Station 2 where they originally were. If you don’t want us moving your bike, please let race directors know before the race and pick up your equipment ASAP. Kayaks will be handled by kayak catchers once you’ve reached the shore. It’s your responsibility to retrieve your equipment in a timely manner once you’ve finished the race.
How much of my money is going to Courage Worldwide?
We have worked hard to gain sponsors to fund this triathlon so that EVERY PENNY or your registration fee goes toward building homes for these horribly abused kids. Know that YOU are making a difference!