GENERAL: CLICK HERE FOR ANSWERS

What type of Triathlon is this and what are the distances?
How many years has this triathlon taken place?
Who can participate in this triathlon?
How many entry spots are available to participants?
Is this a good race for first-timers?
Where does the race take place?
When will the race take place?
What is the weather and water temperature?

RACE REGISTRATION: CLICK HERE FOR ANSWERS

How can I register for this triathlon?
What are the entry fees?
What forms of payment do you accept?
What is your refund and deferral policy?
What is the Escape TO Alcatraz Triathlon Series and how can I qualify through one of these events?
When and how can I enter the random lottery?
Is there a fee to enter the lottery?
What are my odds of being selected?
How many times may I enter the lottery?
Do I need a specific qualifying time or specific triathlon experience to be selected in the lottery?
If I am selected in the lottery and my friend is not, can I give him/her my spot?
If I am selected in the lottery, may I defer to the following year?
How will I know if I am selected in the lottery?
How do I accept my lottery slot and confirm my entry?
How can I enter as a Professional Triathlete?
How can I participate in an Escape Academy?
How can I earn a Charity race entry?
How can I receive a Sponsor guest race entry?

TRAVEL: CLICK HERE FOR ANSWERS

What airport should I fly in to for the event?
What is the best way to ship my bicycle to the event?
What hotels are close enough to bike to the event?
What is the best way to get around town?
Where can I park on race day?

How do I confirm that I am registered for the race?
What is the event schedule?
What am I required to attend as a participant?
When do I pick up my race packet?
What items will I need during packet pick-up?
When do I get body marked?
When do I rack my bike?
When do I receive my timing chip?
Why the two transition bags?
What should I place in my two transition bags?
May a friend or family member pick up my race packet for me?
Are there additional opportunities to learn about the race besides the athlete meeting?

SWIM: CLICK HERE FOR ANSWERS

Where is the swim start and how do I get there?
What attire is allowed during the swim?
What is the water temperature?
Are there sharks in the Bay?
What happens if I need help during the swim?
What is the cut-off time for the swim and what happens if I don’t make the cut-off?
How far is the swim exit from the main transition?

BIKE: CLICK HERE FOR ANSWERS

Can my friends and family wait for me by my bike in transition?
Can my friends and family decorate my bike position area in transition?
Are stationary bicycle trainers allowed in transition?
What type of bicycle is best for this race?
What is the elevation of the bike course?
Where can I get my bicycle tuned up before the race?

RUN & FINISH: CLICK HERE FOR ANSWERS

What types of surfaces will I encounter on the run?
Is the run course a closed course?
What is the Sand Ladder and where is it located?
Where is the finish line?
Can my friends and family cross the finish line with me?
Will I receive anything when I finish?

NUTRITION & AID STATIONS: CLICK HERE FOR ANSWERS

Where are the aid stations located throughout the course?
What is available at the aid stations?
What meal is available at the finish?

RELAY TEAMS: CLICK HERE FOR ANSWERS

What does it mean to compete on a relay team?
Do relay teams need to enter the lottery?
What is the difference between an Open Relay Team and a Corporate Relay Team?
Which relay team member is responsible for the warm-up transition run from the swim exit to the main transition area?
When and where do the relay teammates switch off for the next leg?
When do the cyclist and runner need to be in place in the transition area?
Are stationary bicycle trainers allowed in transition?

FRIENDS & FAMILY: CLICK HERE FOR ANSWERS

Where is the best place to watch the race?
Is there anything for my friends and family to do during the race?
How can my friends and family view or track the race results?

AFTER THE RACE: CLICK HERE FOR ANSWERS

When is the awards ceremony?
Who receives awards?
Where can I find race photos?

GENERAL

What type of Triathlon is this and what are the distances?
A: This is a modified International Distance Triathlon consisting of a 1.5-mile swim (2.4km), followed by an 18-mile bike (29km), and followed by an 8-mile run (13km).

How many years has this triathlon taken place?
A: 2013 will mark the 33rd year of the event.

Who can participate in the triathlon?
A: The race is open to professional triathletes, age group amateurs, and relay teams.

How many entry spots are available to participants?
A: The race is capped at 2,000 entries. This is primarily due to the capacity on the boat and the time constraints on the race course.

Is this a good race for first-timers?
A: This race is extremely challenging and we do not recommend for first-time triathletes unless you have experience in similar disciplines, are in excellent physical condition, or have been working out with an experienced trainer or coach. We recommend attending an Escape Academy Clinic if you are training for this as a first-time triathlon or even if you are experience but have never done this particular race before.

Where does the race take place?
A: The race is held in and around San Francisco Bay. The swim starts off Alcatraz Island and the swim exit is located adjacent to St. Francis Yacht Club off Marina Blvd. The transition area, finish line, and festival expo are located at Marina Green near the intersection of Marina Blvd and Scott Street. The bike course travels through the Presidio, out the Great Highway, through Golden Gate Park and back to Marina Green. The run course travels through the Presidio, under the Golden Gate Bridge, along Baker Beach, and back to Marina Green. For more information on the course, CLICK HERE.

When will the race take place?
A: The race usually takes place in the beginning of June on a Sunday. However, due to the America's Cup in SF in 2013, we have moved our date earlier to March 3, 2013. See the Schedule for details.

What is the weather and water temperature in early June in San Francisco?
A: The weather can vary greatly at this time of year even minute by minute. Generally, the weather is mild in the upper 50’s to upper 60’s, however some years have seen low 40’s and some have seen upper 80’s. The water temperature in the Bay is generally around 55 degrees.

RACE REGISTRATION

How can I register for this triathlon?
A: This race does not have an open entry process, however there are several ways to gain access:
1. Qualify through one of our Escape to Alcatraz Triathlon Series Events
2. Qualify by placing first in your age group in the previous year’s Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon
3. Selection in the Random Lottery
4. Enter as a Professional Triathlete
5. Participate in an Escape Academy Clinic
6. Earn a Charity Slot
7. Receive a Sponsor Guest Slot

What are the entry fees?
A: Individuals: $400
Open Relay Teams: $1050
Corporate Relay Teams: $1200
Note: Non-USAT members will have to pay an additional $12 fee.

What is your refund and deferral policy?
A: Refund: There will be no refunds, no exceptions.
Transfers: There are no transfers (giving up your spot to another person), except for relay team members - see note below.
Deferrals: Participants competing as indivuals (not on relay teams) may defer to the following year for medical emergency reasons only.  Proof of medical injury or condition and a doctor's note must be sent to info@escapefromalcatraztriathlon.com no later than March 2, 2013.

There will be no deferrals granted after March 2, 2013. No exceptions. 

Those on relay teams must find a replacement.  There are no refunds or deferrals for relay teams or team members.

What is the Escape to Alcatraz Triathlon Series and how can I qualify through one of the events?
A: The Escape to Alcatraz Triathlon Series is a set of events that each hold up to 50 qualifying spots for the following Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon. Qualifying spots are broken down by age group giving either the top finisher or top two finishers per age group a qualifying spot. It is not based on finishing in a specific time frame but rather finishing first. For more information, CLICK HERE.

When and how can I enter the Random Lottery?
A: Registration for the lottery opens on September 1, 2012 and is available through October 26,2012. There are two lottery draws to select approximately 1700 participants. Registration for the lottery is available online through this Official Event Website.

Is there a fee to enter the lottery?
A: Yes, there is a $20 non-refundable fee to enter the lottery. However, those selected will have this $20 applied toward their entry fee during completion of online registration. READ MORE>>


What are my odds of being selected?
A: The number of people entering the lottery varies from year to year. Additionally, there are some advantages based on prior participation in the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon and based on where you live. Generally speaking, you will have between a 30% and 50% chance of being selected. For more information on the lottery process, CLICK HERE.

How many times may I enter the lottery?
A: You may enter the lottery only once per year. All duplicate entries will be deleted.

Do I need a specific qualifying time or specific triathlon experience to be selected in the lottery?
A: There is no minimum qualifying time or required experience to enter. However, we may ask you for your estimated finish time and a list of three relevant races you have participated in previously. This will not affect your chances of being selected in the lottery but does allow us the opportunity to better understand our competitors and set expectations.

If I am selected in the lottery and my friend is not, can I give him/her my lottery spot?
A: No, lottery spots and registered entries are non-transferrable.

If I am selected in the lottery, may I defer to the following year?
A: No, lottery slots may not be deferred.

How will I know if I am selected in the lottery?
A: There are two lottery drawings. Selectees' names will be posted online with a link to accept the entry and complete registration. All lottery slots will have a deadline to be accepted. If you do not accept in time, you have forfeited your spot. No exceptions.

How do I accept my lottery slot and confirm my entry?
A: A unique link will be provided by your name on our online selectees list.  You must click on this link to accept your lottery win, complete registration and complete payment within the allotted time. If you do not accept in time and pay the entry fees in full, you will have forfeited your spot. No exceptions.

How can I enter as a Professional Triathlete?
A: First, you must have official status as a professional and be able to provide your USAT Pro License number or a similar license from your national governing body. All Professional Triathletes wishing to compete should CONTACT US first.

How can I participate in an Escape Academy?
A: The Escape Academy is offered several times throughout the year. Qualified and experience coaches will provide specific training to the Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon race course. Everyone who participates in an Escape Academy will qualify to enter the following Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon. For more information, CLICK HERE. 

How can I earn a Charity Slot?
A: The Escape from Alcatraz Triathlon offers a limited number of spots to charities. These charities may distribute their entry slots as they choose. Interested parties must contact each charity directly regarding their race entries. To view a list of participating charities, CLICK HERE.

How can I receive a sponsor guest slot?
A: Some sponsorship packages include race entries. If you or your company is interested in becoming a sponsor of this event, please CONTACT US.

TRAVEL

What airport should I fly in to for the event?
A: SFO – San Francisco International Airport www.flysfo.com
Directions from SFO to Event Site

OAK – Oakland International Airport www.flyoakland.com
Directions from OAK to Event Site

What is the best way to ship my bicycle to San Francisco?
A: There are two options.  Click here for more info.

What hotels are close enough to bike to the event?
A: Hotels located in the Marina or Fisherman's Wharf are best.  For more information, visit our LODGING page. 

What is the best way to get around town?
A: Ride your bike – San Francisco is a bike friendly town! Learn more
Public Transportation – Learn more
San Francisco Cable Cars – Learn More

Where can I park on race day?
A: There is no parking allowed at Marina Green or on Marina Blvd. All vehicles parked in restricted areas will be towed prior to the start of the race. Parking is very limited in and around Marina Green. We strongly suggest taking public transportation, a taxi, a bicycle, or have a friend drop you off at Marina Green.

How do I confirm that I am registered for the race?
A: A PARTICIPANT LIST will be available on the Official Event Website.

What is the event schedule?
A: The race takes place Sunday morning with the swim beginning at 7:30am. Packet pick-up takes place on Saturday. The Fitness Festival and Expo take place Saturday and Sunday. For more information, CLICK HERE.

What am I required to attend as a participant?
A: Every participant including individual members of relay teams MUST sign in and pick up their own packet on Saturday. Every participant must also attend at least one athlete meeting on Saturday. For details on the entire event schedule, CLICK HERE.

When do I pick up my packet?
A: Saturday (See Event Schedule)

What items will I need during packet pick-up?
A: Each participant MUST bring a valid ID. All annual USAT members must bring their membership card.

When do I get body marked?
A: Saturday during packet pick-up.

When do I rack my bike?
A: Sunday prior to the race start.

When do I receive my timing chip?
A: You will receive it in your packet on Saturday.

Why the two race bags?
A: You will receive two race bags during packet pick-up. One bag is for the items you will take with you to Pier 3 but not on the swim. This bag will be collected by race staff Sunday morning at Pier 3 and will be available in the bag corral following the race. The second bag is for any items you would like to have available at the swim exit prior to the short warm-up run to the main transition area. This bag will be collected by race staff ON SATURDAY and available in the bag corral following the race. Make sure each bag is clearly marked with your bib number.

What should I place in my two transition bags?
A: Keep items to an absolute minimum for each bag. DO NOT place valuables including iPods, heart rate monitors, wedding bands, wallets, “lucky shirts” or similar items you can’t bear to lose as there is always a chance of these items being lost in transit. The boat bag should contain a light sweatshirt, sweatpants, and flip flops at most. The swim exit bag should contain a small bottle of water, small towel, and secondary pair of running shoes. (These should NOT be your main shoes you will use for the run portion of the event as they will be wet.) PLEASE: Put your name in your wetsuit with permanent marker and remember these bags are easily torn open during transport. Do NOT put anything in the bag you cannot live without.

May a friend or family member pick up my race packet for me?
A: No.

Are there additional opportunities to learn about the race besides the athlete meeting?
A: Yes. On Thursday and Friday before the race, the Escape Academy will host a pre-race talk, question & answer session, and meet & greet with top coaches. This will take place at Sports Basement near the event site. Information available on the website as the event approaches.

SWIM

Where is the swim start and how do I get there?
A: On Sunday morning, you will rack your bike and board shuttle to take you to Pier 3. You will be ordered according to age group and boarded onto a large passenger ferry, The San Francisco Belle. The boat will stop near Alcatraz Island approx. 1.5 miles from the swim exit. All participants will jump from the ferry to start the race.

What attire is allowed or not allowed on the swim?
A: Wetsuits, goggles, neoprene caps, and neoprene socks ARE allowed. You will be provided with a colored swim cap that you must wear to denote your age group. Gloves are NOT allowed.

What is the water temperature in the Bay?
A: Approx. 55º

Are there sharks in the Bay?
A: Yes, there is marine life in San Francisco Bay including sharks, seals, and sea lions. The sharks that live in the Bay are small and hang out at the bottom of the Bay. These sharks have no interest in triathletes. The larger sharks live outside the Bay where the water is nice and salty. These larger sharks do not like nor can they survive in the brackish waters of San Francisco Bay. Seals and Sea Lions may be curious about triathletes but pose no danger.

What happens if I need help during the swim?
A: There will be many boats, kayaks, lifeguards, and water safety teams out on the water during the swim. They are available if you need to grab onto a boat or kayak for a minute to rest or re-orient yourself. This action will not incur a penalty. They are there for rescue as well if you determine you cannot finish the swim and wish to drop out of the race.

What is the cut-off time for the swim and what happens if I don’t make it in the time allotted?
A: The cut-off time for the swim is one hour. Those still in the water after one hour will be picked up by boat, brought to shore, and allowed to finish without penalty.

How far is the swim exit from the main transition?
A: It is about a half-mile from swim exit to transition. You will have the option of taking off your wetsuit and putting on shoes prior to this short transition run but neither is required.

BIKE

Can my friends and family wait for me by my bike in transition?
A: No, only participants are allowed in transition.

Can my friends and family decorate my bike position area in transition?
A: NO decorations are allowed including signage, balloons, stuffed animals, etc.

Are stationary bicycle trainers allowed in transition?
A: No

What type of bicycle is best for this race?
A: For this race, there is no advantage to having a triathlon/time-trial bicycle. Aero bars are not necessary as you will have little opportunity to use them throughout the curving, technical, hilly bike course. A traditional road bike configuration is best.

What is the elevation of the bike course?
A: An elevation map can be found on our website: CLICK HERE

RUN & FINISH

What types of surfaces will I encounter on the run?
A: The run course is made up of asphalt, chip trail, dirt trail, stairs, a tunnel, sand, sand steps, and grass.

Is the run course a closed course?
A: No, you will not only encounter participants running in the opposite direction as you but you will also encounter Sunday morning joggers, walkers, and dogs. Be careful and stay focused. Some parts of the course are narrow with participants running in two directions. Be kind and courteous to other participants.

What is the Sand Ladder and where is it located?
A: The Sand Ladder is a series of steps that will take you from the beach below to the road above. It is made up of wooden slats under sand. Try to place your foot on the wooden slats as much as possible as you take your steps. There is also a wire hand rail that you may use to help pull yourself up to the top. The Sand Ladder is located near mile 5 of the run course. WALK, do not run up the Sand Ladder, otherwise you will burn yourself out before the finish. Even the Pro’s walk or lightly jog up the Sand Ladder.

Where is the finish line?
A: The finish line is located at Marina Green next to transition and the race expo. Grandstand line the finish chute so family and friends may cheer on participants as they finish.

Can my friends and family cross the finish line with me?
A: No, only participants may cross the finish line.

Will I receive anything when I finish?
A: You will receive water and a finisher’s medal when you cross the finish line. Muscle Milk will also be available as well as medical and massage assistance. Each participant will be treated to a catered meal upon finishing as well.

NUTRITION & AID STATIONS

Where are the aid stations located throughout the course?
A: Transition, Swim Exit, and at each mile along the run course.

What is available at the aid stations?
A: Water and CytoMax.  Water and Muscle Milk will be available at the race start and finish.

What meal is available at the finish?
A: Each participant will enjoy a catered meal consisting of fruit, carbohydrates (breads & pastas), protein, salad, and dessert.

RELAY TEAMS

What does it mean to compete on a relay team?
A: A relay team is made up of two to three participants who each participate in one leg of the triathlon. The timing chip acts as the “baton” and is handed off to the next relay team member during transition.

Do relay teams need to enter the lottery?
A: No, open relay teams and corporate relay teams may enter on a first come first serve basis. Spots are limited. MORE>>

A Corporate Relay Team is made up of three participants from the same company, corporation, or organization who compete alongside other teams from their same company, all on behalf of their company or organization. Each company or organization must register at least TWO teams in order to compete. The company or organization with the best combined finish time of their top two teams will win the coveted Keys to the Rock Corporate Challenge Cup, a perpetual trophy awarded and defended each year. The Corporate Challenge Relay is limited to about 50 relay teams. Honorary mention is also given to the top finishing all male, all female, and mixed Corporate Challenge Team. MORE>>

When and where do the relay teammates switch off for the next leg?
A: The cyclist and the runner must wait in transition by the team’s specific bicycle placement on the bike racks. The swimmer passes the timing chip (the “baton”) off to the cyclist. The cyclist passes the timing chip off to the runner.

When do the cyclist and runner need to be in place in the transition area?
A: 7:00 AM. No exceptions or excuses.

Are stationary bicycle trainers allowed in transition?
A: No

FRIENDS & FAMILY

How can I volunteer for the event?
A: We need and accept many volunteers for this race. CLICK HERE for more information. 

Is there anything for my friends and family to do during the race?
A: There is a fitness festival and expo located at Marina Green with many vendors, activities, concessions, and beer garden. The expo is family friendly and free to the public.

How can I view or track race results?
A: Results will be posted online and updated in real time throughout the race. There will be a Digital Results Zone within the Fitness Festival and Expo located at Marina Green. Friends, family, and triathletes will be able to access computer terminals to view individual and overall results. Results will be available HERE>>

AFTER THE RACE

When is the awards ceremony?
A: The awards ceremony will take place at Marina Green at approximately 11:30 am on Sunday.

Who receives awards?
A: Top professional finishers and the top three finishers in each age group or competitor division.

Where can I find race photos?
A: Race photos will be available for viewing and purchase following the event weekend through Brightoom.com. Details will be available on our website.