How to Set Up a Smooth Transition at Wildflower

If you’re racing in Wildflower this year, one of the most helpful things you can do ahead of time is figure out your transition setup. With everything that’s going on from gear, people, pre-race nerves, having a plan makes a difference. With some planning and a clean setup, your transition can run smoothly and help you stay focused throughout the race. Here’s what you need to know to get organized and ready.

1. Get the Lay of the Land

The transition area is open Saturday and Sunday from 6 AM until the end of the awards ceremony. Every athlete is assigned a numbered bike rack, and all bikes must be racked before the first wave of the day starts. Once your bike is in place, head to one of the body marking stations located throughout the area.

Only athletes and race staff are allowed in transition, so plan accordingly and carry your own gear. It’s also a good idea to walk through the area the day before your race. Note where you’ll enter from the swim, exit for the bike, return from the bike, and head out for the run.

2. What to Bring and How to Organize It

Avoid bringing more gear than necessary. A simple, organized setup reduces stress and saves time. Here’s a basic checklist:

Swim → Bike (T1):

• Towel
• Helmet (unbuckled and ready to wear)
• Sunglasses
• Bike shoes and socks
• Nutrition (gels, bars, etc.)

Bike → Run (T2):

• Running shoes
• Hat or visor
• Race bib and race belt
• Additional nutrition or hydration if needed

Note: Glass containers are not allowed in the transition area. Also, make sure nothing is hanging from or leaning on your bike that could interfere with your wheels.

3. Laying Out Your Gear

Practice transitioning at home or near your tent the day before. Get used to the order you’ll move through your gear. When race morning arrives, lay your items out the same way. Keep your helmet and shoes in a spot that’s easy to reach and won’t get knocked over. If you’re using socks, have them rolled and ready. Place your running shoes with the laces loose or use quick-lace systems.

4. Race-Day Transitions

Swim: Your swim time ends when you cross the timing mat at the top of the boat ramp. Run to your rack and start your transition. Relay teams exchange timing tags at their designated rack spots.

Bike: Put on your helmet and fasten the strap before touching your bike. Riding is not allowed in the transition area. Walk your bike to the correct exit. Olympic distance athletes head up Lynch Hill, while Long Course and Mountain Bike athletes turn left through the finish chute.

Run: After returning from the bike leg, re-rack your bike and keep your helmet on and buckled until it’s secure. Exit the transition area on foot, heading up the Lynch Ramp stairs and toward Shoreline Drive. Bottle fill stations are available at the bottom of the stairs and at the back of the transition area.

Final Tip

Wildflower brings a lot of energy and hype, but that doesn’t mean your transition has to be chaotic. A calm, organized setup gives you one less thing to worry about on race day.