Virtual? Yep.
Like many races these days, RTB Events have decided to go virtual with our triathlons and switch them to Bike/Run duathlons. For a few months, we were hoping that the events would happen as originally planned the way we all love them... mass starts, crowded transition areas, rowdy finish lines, festive finish celebrations, sweaty hugs... That won't be possible this year for us and while originally we weren't thinking of switching to Virtual events, we've learned a lot and have changed our minds. There are a lot of great organizations and race directors making fun opportunities for their athletes to race and we're hoping you'll jump on board with us.
Virtual Options - there are 2
You can race on the actual courses (these are called 'On-Course') , or duplicate the distances and race anywhere you like ('Race Anywhere').
During a 2-week period bookended by weekends, athletes can race the distance of their choice - or do all the distances offered for a few dollars more. Black Diamond is tentatively scheduled to run August 1 - August 16.
What no swim?
With months of closed pools and only open water swimming for training, we aren't comfortable putting a bunch of people in the water by themselves. Sorry, No Swim.
Safe Racing
In order to adhere to Covid restrictions and keep ourselves and the people we care about safe, then racing solo (or socially distanced with small groups) is the name of the game these days. This means there won't be volunteers, or police, or even other athletes to look out for each other. You'll need to obey the rules of the road - stop at stoplights, road crossings, etc. You'll need to be familiar with the course, and follow directions when you hear them from RaceJoy. More on that now.
Expect Unusual circumstances
There are a few things that set Virtual Races apart. The Starts and Finishes might be different than what you expect! Your transition area will probably be your car - at Black Diamond we suggest the southeast corner of the main parking lot if at all possible - close to the picnic shelter in the woods. Your transition times will probably be a bit longer than usual. And your overall times could be dependent on traffic or other interruptions. Stay calm and happy and alert out there. 2020 brings new opportunities for flexibility!
Introducing RaceJoy
We're really excited to bring Run Signup's RaceJoy App to the RTB event experience this year. This is the part that's going to make the Virtual Events a lot more fun!!! Athletes will download the RaceJoy App on their phones, which turns it into a GPS tracking device. If you are racing an On-course event, you'll be able to see yourself (and others) on a map. The App will give you audible alerts for turns ahead, mile markers, & progress reports. Your family and friends can download the App also and follow your progress on race day. They'll be able to easily meet you along the way, or for transition and your triumphant finish. They'll be able to send cheers (or heckles) to you as well that you'll hear while you're out there. See a video about RaceJoy HERE
What about Results?
RaceJoy will track your times and/or you'll be able to submit from your device. Not interested in submitting results? No problem....race for the pure pleasure and skip it. This is a great way for folks to enter multisport without all the pressure to perform. Register and just enjoy the ride. You'll still get the same swag. Tell your newbie friends!
What if you don't like your time?
Well, unlike normal racing, if you don't like your time - or notice that your archenemy age-group rival has beaten you - simply race again and re-submit your results. Heads up, though, that your official time will be the LAST one you submit..no picking and choosing your favorite result ;)
There's Swag???
What's a race without swag? You'll receive a t-shirt, medal, and some other goodies mailed to your home after the race. You'll also have the option to purchase a 2020 Special Edition Pint Glass. This year they are available to everyone, not just podium finishers. :)
You're registered. Is this your only option for compensation?
Nope - If you choose not to transfer to virtual, you can receive a deferral to 2020 or a refund. The difference in price can be credited toward another RTB event or refunded to you. We appreciate your willingness to seriously consider this virtual option or deferrals so we can keep our heads above water here at RTB during the challenge of Covid.
