Frequently Asked Questions
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: 2011 will mark the 31st 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. The 2011 event is scheduled for June 5, 2011 and is subject to change. The website will have the most updated information.
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.
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 $10 fee. All registrants will be responsible for a non-refundable $3.50 processing fee.
What forms of payment do you accept?
A: We accept VISA, MasterCard, and Discover Card.
What is your refund and deferral policy?
A: For information on receiving a refund or deferral, CLICK HERE(Coming Soon).
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 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 December 1st and is available through about the end of January. There are two lottery draws to select approximately 1500 participants. Registration for the lottery is available online through this Official Event Website.
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 will 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. All of those selected will be notified via the email given during online registration for the lottery. Additionally, all names will be posted online as a back-up in case your spam filters catch the email. 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: Special registration instructions will be provided to you in your notification email. You must follow the instructions to online registration and complete payment within the allotted time as detailed in the email. 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, contact Eric Gilsenan: egilsenan@competitorgroup.com.
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.
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: The Official Hotel of the event is the Hilton Fisherman’s Wharf.
http://www.hiltonfishermanswharf.com/
Other hotels within one (1) mile.
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: Crissy Field, just a couple miles past the Marina Green. Take the Presidio/Crissy Field exit off 101 and park under the freeway. No parking is allowed at Marina Green or on Marina Blvd. All vehicles parked in restricted areas will be towed prior to the start of the race.
