ATHLETE THLETEGUIDE E 2026 026 2026
BIKE SWIM RUN DOTHEDAMTHING
WELCOME
RACE DAY INFO TRANSITION & HEAT SHEET
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COURSE MAPS
MESSAGE FROM RACE COMMITTEE
Welcome Athletes!
On behalf of the Shawnee Mission Triathlon & Duathlon Race Committee, Johnson County Park & Recreation District, our amazing volunteers, and generous sponsors - THANK YOU for being part of the 42nd annual event. This year’s race proudly hosts the USA Triathlon Kansas State Championship and serves as the second stop in the brand-new Midwest Triathlon Series. Whether you’re returning to Shawnee Mission Park or taking on this challenge for the first time, we’re thrilled to have you here.
This event has thrived for more than four decades thanks to the incredible support of our volunteers and sponsors. When you see them throughout the weekend, take a moment to share a high-five or a heartfelt thank-you - their energy and commitment keep this community tradition going strong. Be sure to visit our sponsors as well; these local businesses and partners help make race weekend possible year after year.
Please review this athlete guide carefully for important information to help you feel confident and ready for race day. Encourage your family and support crew to check out the Spectator Information section so they know the best places to cheer you on and stay connected. For the latest updates and announcements, follow our Facebook page throughout the weekend.
Most importantly - soak it all in, support one another, and enjoy an incredible race experience. We can’t wait to see you at the start line. Wishing you a safe race, a strong finish, and an unforgettable day. See you at the finish line!
Shawnee Mission Triathlon & Duathlon Race Committee
EVENT SCHEDULE
FRIDAY, JULY 31, 2026
SATURDAY, AUGUST 1, 2026 1
SUNDAY, AUGUST 2, 2026 - RACE DAY
4:30 a.m. Park Gates Open Theatre in the Park at Shawnee Mission Park
4:30 a.m. 6:25 a.m. Shuttle Buses Run Theatre in the Park to Marina
4:30 a.m. 6:25 a.m. Transition Open Shawnee Mission Park Marina
6:25 a.m. 10:30 a.m. Transition Closed Shawnee Mission Park Marina
6:30 a.m. Race Start Shawnee Mission Park - Triathlon: Beach, Duathlon: Main Park Road
10:30 a.m. Shuttle Buses Run Marina to Theatre in the Park
10:30 a.m. 11:30 a.m. Awards Ceremony Shawnee Mission Park - NW Corner of Marina Lot
There will be NO race day registration or packet pickup.
USAT COMPETITIVE RULES
TRANSITION RULES
• Cycling is not permitted inside the transition area.
• ONLY athletes competing in the event are allowed inside the transition area. This includes before and after the event.
• Nudity or indecent exposure is forbidden.
SWIMMING CONDUCT
• Athletes may use any stroke to propel themselves through the water.
• Wetsuits will be allowed IF the water temperature is at or below 78 degrees Fahrenheit. If the water temperature is between 78.1 and 84 degrees Fahrenheit, athletes may wear a wet suit but will not qualify for awards. No wet suits will be allowed if the water temperature is above 84 degrees Fahrenheit. *PleasenotethatthiseventisNOTtypicallywetsuitlegal.
• All athletes must wear the official swim cap during the swim segment.
CYCLING CONDUCT
• Athletes will follow traffic laws: passing ONLY on the LEFT and staying RIGHT except to pass.
• No personal audio devices or headsets allowed.
• Helmets must be securely fastened and fit properly at all times.
RUNNING RULES
• The responsibility of knowing and following the course rests with each athlete.
• No personal audio devices or headsets allowed.
GENERAL RACE RULES
• Race numbers must be displayed at all times. Swimmers must be clearly body marked, cyclists must display their bike numbers, and runners must wear their bib numbers.
Click here for a comprehensive list of the USA Triathlon competitive rules.
PRE-RACE INFORMATION
ADDRESSES
PACKET PICKUP DAY 1
Elite Cycling
4563 Indian Creek Pkwy
Overland Park, KS 66207
RACE DAY PARKING
Theatre in the Park at Shawnee Mission Park
7710 Renner Road
Shawnee, KS 66218
ATHLETE BRIEFING
PACKET PICKUP DAY 2
Mill Creek Activity Center 6518 Vista Drive
Shawnee, KS 66218
RACE SITE
Shawnee Mission Park Marina 7900 Renner Road
Shawnee, KS 66218
All athletes are encouraged to watch the virtual athlete briefing which will be available on the website, social media, and in athlete pre-race emails. The Race Director will cover information including but not limited to: race day parking, transition, swim start, du start, finish line, results, and event safety measures. Please share this video with your family and friends who will be joining you on race day.
PACKET PICKUP
Per USA Triathlon rules, athletes must:
1. Show photo ID.
2. If you are picking up for another athlete, you must have a photocopy of their ID and written verification from the athlete that the individual picking up the packet is authorized to do so.
AdetailedversionofUSATriathlon’spacket pickuprulescanbefoundhere .
YOUR RACE PACKET WILL INCLUDE
Race packets will include the following:
- Timing chip (number on chip may not match your race number)
- Race numbers: helmet sticker, bike tag, bib, safety pins
- Swim cap (must wear on race day)
- Race shirt
- Promotional items from sponsors
USAT KANSAS STATE CHAMPIONSHIP
State championships will qualify the top 35% or top five (5) finishers in an age group (whichever is greater). You may only qualify for Olympic-distance Nationals by placing in the Olympic distance State Championship race or Sprint Nationals by placing in the sprint distance State Championship race. High School State Championships Exemption: All high school athletes who finish any of the State High School Championships will automatically qualify for Sprint-distance.
Any state championship that occurs after June 1, 2026 will qualify for BOTH 2026 AND 2027 USA Triathlon Sprint and Olympic Distance National Championships. The qualification criteria for 2027 USA Triathlon Sprint and Olympic Distance National Championships are subject to change from what it is for 2025. Click here to review the full 2025 qualification criteria for Sprint and Olympic Distance National Championships.
Athletes do not have to be a resident of a state to win that state’s championship. Any age group athlete competing in an age group division is eligible to win any state championship.
RACE DAY PARKING
Gates to Theatre in the Park at Shawnee Mission Park will open at 4:30 a.m. on Sunday, August 2nd.
The ONLY access point to the park will be through the Theatre in the Park entrance. Parking attendants stationed at Theatre in the Park will direct you to a designated spot. This is to ensure everyone has a parking space.
A shuttle bus will be available. The bus will run from 4:30-6:20 a.m. and will resume after the last cyclist is off the course at approximately 10:00 a.m.
Please keep in mind that if you have spectators coming to cheer you on, they will need to arrive prior to 6:15 a.m. in order to catch the bus down to the marina. Those arriving after this time will have to walk down.
Thank you for following the parking attendants directions and being kind when entering the park.
PARKING ADDRESS:
7710 RENNER ROAD SHAWNEE, KS 66218
PRE-RACE BATTLE BRAIDS
We understand that one of the biggest things athletes struggle with on race day is what to do with their hair so that their helmet will fit and be comfortable - BRAIDS are 100% the way to go!
Thanks to our wonderful group of volunteers, we are excited to host a battle braid station at packet pickup on Saturday, August 1st from 1-5 p.m. as well as on race morning from 4:30 a.m. to race start! This is free to athletes with a suggested donation of $10. All donations will benefit the TRI913 Youth Triathlon Team.
RACE IDENTIFICATION - RACE PACKET DETAILS
BIB NUMBER
Athletes are required to wear their bib number on the run and can use the safety pins provided in the race packet, or a runner’s belt. The bib number must be worn on the front and must be clearly visible at all times during the run course.
TIMING CHIP
You will wear your timing chip on your left ankle. The number on your timing chip may not match your race number. Ensure that you have your timing chip throughout the entire race.
SWIM CAP
You must wear the swim cap provided in your race packet during the swim portion of the race. Swim caps are color-coded based on your distance, gender, and heat. Please see “Heat Sheet” page for more information.
BIKE & HELMET STICKERS
You will receive the following stickers in your race packet.
• Bike Frame Sticker
• Helmet Sticker
The bike frame sticker must be visible from both sides of your bike. The helmet sticker will be affixed to the front of your helmet.
BODY MARKING
You will get body marked on your way into transition on race morning through bike mount/dismount. Both arms will be marked with your race number and your calf will be marked with your race category: Age Group = Age, Athena = A, Clydesdale = C, Relay Team = R
RACE CATEGORY BODY MARKINGS
Ages 15-19, wear “15”
Ages 20-24, wear “20”
Ages 25-29, wear “25”
Ages 30-34, wear “30”
Ages 35-39, wear “35”
Ages 40-44, wear “40”
Ages 45-49, wear “45”
Ages 50-54, wear “50”
Ages 55-59, wear “55”
Ages 60-64, wear “60”
Ages 65-69, wear “65”
Ages 70-74, wear “70”
Ages 75-79, wear “75”
Ages 80-84, wear “80”
Athena, wear “A” Clydesdale, wear “C” Relay Team, wear “R”
RACE DAY INFORMATION
RACE MORNING PROCEDURE
Transition opens at 4:30 a.m. on race day. Elite Cycling will be on site with bike technicians and pumps near bike mount/dismount. Only athletes will be permitted in transition on race day. If you have misplaced any of your race identification materials, please see a transition volunteer for assistance. Transition will close at 6:25 a.m. All athletes must be out of transition before this time. Transition will reopen for gear pickup at approximately 10:30 a.m. so athletes can grab bikes and belongings after finishing the race. Please note that all times are subject to change based on raceday needs. For everyone’s safety, all athletes must be checked by race staff before removing bikes or equipment from transition.
BODY MARKING
Body marking will be located near the bike mount/ dismount area at the entrance to transition. Both arms will be marked with your race number and your calf will be marked with your race category.
AID STATIONS
Aid stations along the run course will be stocked with water, Gatorade, and basic first aid supplies. A water station near transition will be available for athletes to refill their own bottles. The bike course aid station will offer water and minimal first aid only. Athletes must come to a complete stop to refill bottles at this location.
SAFETY
For everyone’s safety, any unattended bags found outside of transition will be checked by JCPRD Park Police and moved to the information tent. Please do not leave bags unattended outside the transition area at any time.
MINOR ATHLETE ABUSE PREVENTION POLICIES (MAAPP)
The U.S. Center for SafeSport requires several safeguards be put in place at all USA Triathlon sanctioned events. Please ensure that you take some time to read through the document attached to your pre-race emails to make sure we are ensuring the safety of all athletes participating in the event.
WEATHER
In the event of inclement weather or other safety concerns, JCPRD may modify, shorten, or cancel portions of the race. If the start is delayed, updates will be announced at the event (if a public announcement system is available) and on the Rainout Line: 913-686-6030 ext. 16.
The race can be delayed only until it is no longer possible to finish before the park must reopen to the public at 12:00 p.m. If conditions do not improve or the course is deemed unsafe, the event will be canceled with no refunds. There is no rain date or rescheduling for this event.
RACE DAY INFORMATION
TIMING CHIP
Your timing chip is included in your race packet. The number on your timing chip may not match your race number. Your timing chip must be worn on your left ankle at all times during the race. If you do not start the race, you are responsible for returning the timing chip to race staff. It is essential that we know where you are on the course at all times for your safety. If you lose your timing chip during the event, you are responsible for obtaining a replacement from race staff at one of the following locations: swim start, swim exit, transition, or the check-in area. Failure to wear your timing chip on race day or return your timing chip after the event may result in an additional fee. After the race, if you still have your timing chip, please mail it within 5 business days to: MTEC Results at 951 Fairmount Ave., St. Paul, MN 55105.
RACE CUT-OFF
Per our agreement with the JCPRD Park Board, we are required to have the park open by 12pm on race day. If you are still on the course at this time, please know that your bike and belongings will be moved to the information area in the northwest corner of the marina parking lot and will be monitored by staff until you come to retrieve them. Our contract with our medical and police services runs through 12pm as well. At this time, our emergency personnel will also be exiting the course. After 12pm, you will be selfsupported.
RESULTS
Race results will be streamed live on the MTEC Results website and app.
Stay connected on race day by downloading the MTEC Results app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Once installed, search for Shawnee Mission Triathlon or find it under upcoming/recent events.
You can view participants, check post-race results, and even opt in for real-time tracking notifications by tapping the heart icon when viewing a participant.
AWARDS
Awards will be presented to the top 3 overall male and female athletes in each race, as well as the top 3 in each age group/division. Team awards will go to the top 3 overall teams in each race.
Podiums will be available for photos, and announcements will be made with the award ceremony times — so keep an ear out!
POST-RACE FOOD
Cool off at the finish line with refreshments from Kona Ice, Hy-Vee, and Hiland Dairy! Every athlete gets one free Kona Ice - and if you’re craving more, extra treats will be available for purchase.
RACE PHOTOS
Multiple photographers will be on site to capture your race-day moments. Photos will be available in the app by the Monday following the race. Click here to access the photo site.
RACE SHIRTS
If you need to exchange your shirt size, stop by the white information tent in the northwest corner of the marina parking lot after the race to see if extras are available.
TRANSITION
Bike racks are not labeled with individual race numbers. Please rack your bike anywhere within your race number range on the inside aisle.
- Maximum of 8 bikes per rack
- All teams should rack together on 1A & 2A
BIKE MOUNT/DISMOUNT
OLYMPIC TRIATHLETES / VIP
OLYMPIC TRIATHLETES
OLYMPIC TRIATHLETES
OLYMPIC TRIATHLETES
OLYMPIC TRIATHLETES
OLYMPIC TRIATHLETES
LONG COURSE TRIATHLETES
TEAMS
TEAMS
OLYMPIC TRIATHLETES
OLYMPIC TRIATHLETES
LONG COURSE TRIATHLETES
LONG COURSE TRIATHLETES
LONG COURSE TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SUPER SPRINT TRIATHLETES
SUPER SPRINT TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SHORT COURSE TRIATHLETES
SUPER SPRINT TRIATHLETES DUATHLETES DUATHLETES DUATHLETES
HEAT SHEET
START TIME (APPROX.)
EVENT GENDER SWIM CAP COLOR
6:30AM OLYMPIC WAVE MALE GREEN
6:35AM OLYMPIC WAVE FEMALE PINK
7:12AM LONG COURSE WAVE MALE LIGHT BLUE
7:15AM LONG COURSE WAVE FEMALE LIGHT PURPLE
7:37AM SHORT COURSE WAVE MALE ROYAL BLUE
7:42AM SHORT COURSE WAVE FEMALE YELLOW
7:47AM SHORT COURSE TIME TRIAL MALE ORANGE
7:57AM SHORT COURSE TIME TRIAL FEMALE SILVER
8:22AM SUPER SPRINT TIME TRIAL MALE & FEMALE PURPLE
Relays will start alongside individual triathletes in their event distance.
Wave starts: Athletes will start in groups of 50, every 2–3 minutes, until all swimmers in that distance are in the water.
Time trial format: Swimmers enter the water two at a time, every three seconds, lined up by 100-meter pace time (look for signs on the beach).
Timing: Your race clock starts when you cross the timing mat just before entering the water.
DUATHLON
Duathletes will start on the main park road north of transition at the GREEN start flags. Start time: 6:30 a.m.
SWIM COURSE MAP
Shawnee Mission Triathlon & Duathlon Swim Courses
Athletes
BIKE COURSE MAP
There is a roundabout on the south side of the park near mile 1.75. On race day, cyclists will follow the cones and MERGE TO THE LEFT SIDE of the road in order to take a left through the roundabout. Please ensure that you slow to a manageable speed for this sharp left turn.
Please note that going through the roundabout this way is ONLY permitted on race day when the park is closed for this event. Riding incorrectly through the roundabout any other time will not be allowed.
RUN COURSE MAP
COURSE SIGNAGE
DUATHLON SUPERSPRINT TRIATHLON TRIATHLON SHORTCOURSE TRIATHLONLONG OLYMPICTRIATHLON ORANGE PURPLE YELLOW GREEN BLUE
ARROW COLOR WILL MATCH BIB COLOR. COURSE
ATHLETES WILL FOLLOW THE ARROW COLOR LISTED ON THEIR RUN COURSE.
GARMIN CONNECT RUN COURSE MAPS
Duathlon First Run
Super Sprint Triathlon
Short Course Triathlon/Duathlon Second Run
Long Course Triathlon
Olympic Course Triathlon
CLUB CHALLENGE
HOW IT WORKS:
Multisport athletes love a challenge, so we added a competition within the competition! Clubs will compete against each other to earn the title of Champion Club.
AWARDS:
The Club with the most points will be crowned Champion, with their name and year engraved on the traveling trophy, which they’ll keep until the next event. The Champion Club also earns 2 complimentary entries to next year’s race — and, of course, bragging rights for conquering the Dam Hill! The Club with the second-highest score receives 1 complimentary entry for next year.
POINT SUMMARY
- 1 point for each club member who competes (participation)
- 5 points for each member who volunteers (volunteer participation)
- Additional points for relay participation and members finishing in top places
This system rewards both participation and teamwork, making every member’s effort count toward their club’s success.
INDIVIDUAL TRIATHLON & DUATHLON
Overall 1st 10 pts
Overall 2nd 8 pts
Overall 3rd 6 pts
AG/Athena/Clydesdale/Adaptive 1st 5 pts
AG/Athena/Clydesdale/Adaptive 2nd 4 pts
AG/Athena/Clydesdale/Adaptive 3rd 3 pts
RELAYS: One participation point per person competing on the relay. Depending on relay size this could be 2 to 3 points. All relay members must be a part of the Club to earn these points.
Overall 1st 5 pts
Overall 2nd 4 pts
Overall 3rd 3 pts
SPECTATOR INFORMATION
THANK YOU
If you thought race day was just a workout for your athlete, think again! Spectating in the triathlon world is no small task - it’s full of excitement, energy, and plenty of cheering.
We encourage you to join your athlete at packet pickup or orientation and check out the course so you know the best spots to watch. Comfortable shoes, a chair, sunscreen, and water are highly recommendedand don’t forget to know what your athlete is wearing so you don’t miss them on the course!
Your role as a spectator is crucial: cheering keeps athletes going when they get tired, motivates them to push through, and makes race day unforgettable. Thank you for supporting all of our athletes and helping make race day amazing!
As a spectator, you have the important job of cheering on ALL participants! It is no secret that athletes will become tired along the course, but that’s where YOU step in to keep them going! We can’t thank you enough for encouraging all of our athletes on race day.
DOWNLOAD THE MTEC APP
Stay up to date on race day by downloading the MTEC Results app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Once installed, search for Shawnee Mission Triathlon or find it under upcoming/recent events.
You can track participants, view post-race results, and even opt in for real-time notifications by tapping the heart icon when viewing a participant.
FREE CHEER SIGNS
Visit the white information tent in the northwest corner of the Shawnee Mission Park marina parking lot to grab a free cheer sign and personalize it for your athlete! Signs will be available at both packet pickups and on race day.
PARKING/SHUTTLE
Parking for spectators and athletes is at Theatre in the Park in Shawnee Mission Park. You can walk to the marina or take the shuttle bus, which runs from 4:30 a.m. to 6:20 a.m. and resumes around 10:00 a.m. after the last cyclist is off the course.
If you walk, please stay on the trails once you reach the main park road to keep yourself and the athletes safe.
COFFEE, SNACKS, & KONA ICE
Fuel up on race day! Travelin’ Toms Coffee and Kona Ice will be available for purchase before, during, and after the event.
SAFETY
For everyone’s safety, please cheer from behind the fenced areas and stay alert throughout the event. The finish line is on the north side of the main park road, so you’ll need to cross where cyclists are riding - always use the crosswalk and exercise extra caution while crossing.
SWIM RUN
tri with us!
What to bring to the event: RACE DAY CHECKLIST
General
☐ Photo ID
☐ Registration confirmation
☐ Directions to venue
☐ Course map
☐ Money
☐ Race uniform
☐ Race numbers and timing chip
☐ Sunscreen
☐ Sunglasses
☐ Anti-chafing product
☐ Extra clothes
☐ Watch
Transition Gear
☐ Towel(s)/Transition mat
☐ Water bottle(s)
☐ Gels/energy bars and drinks/salt tablets
Swim Gear
☐ Swim cap
☐ Goggles
Bike Gear
☐ Bike
☐ Helmet
☐ Bike shoes
☐ Bike gloves
☐ Tire pump
☐ Spare tube(s)
☐ CO2 cartridges
☐ Tools
☐ Bar-end plugs
Run Gear
☐ Running shoes
☐ Hat/visor
☐ Race number belt
☐ Socks
TEAM CECILIA AWARD
The Team Cecilia Spirit of Multisport Award seeks to recognize individuals who exemplify the positive spirit of the sport through acts of sportsmanship, leadership, and their efforts to grow a more diverse and inclusive multisport field.
IN HONOR OF CECILIA NIEMANN
Cecilia had an infectious smile and bright eyes that brought a joyful light to everyone around her. Despite having cerebral palsy, which impacted her physical and verbal abilities, as well as caused significant health challenges, she lived an active, adventurous, and full life. She refused to be defined by her limitations, and instead spent her life displaying her abilities to family, friends, and community to promote change and inclusion for ALL.
Over the years, Cecilia completed countless road races, half-marathons, marathons, and triathlons. Her multisport debut came in 2013 at the Open Options Shawnee Mission Triathlon & Duathlon, setting the stage for inclusion in Kansas City-area races. While breaking down barriers, Team Cecilia enjoyed years of being welcomed, and often recruited, to participate in most of the area’s triathlons.
2026 RECIPIENT: DON HERRON
Don Herron embodies the spirit of multisport through his decades-long commitment to making triathlon accessible, inclusive, and inspiring for Kansas City’s youth and broader community. Don’s character shines through his consistent presence and dependability.
As a founding member of TRiKC and a fixture at the Shawnee Mission Triathlon for decades, he has mentored countless athletes with integrity and respect. His approach to coaching emphasizes encouragement over competition, building confidence in athletes of all abilities. Two years ago, after a significant health crisis left him uncertain whether he could race again, Don demonstrated remarkable resilience. Through dedicated work with his doctors and unwavering determination, he completed the Shawnee Mission Triathlon that same year – a testament to his character and an inspiration to everyone who knows his story.
Don founded a free youth triathlon team specifically designed to inspire and encourage participation among children who might otherwise lack access to the sport. By removing financial barriers and welcoming young athletes from all backgrounds, he has worked to ensure triathlon reflects the diversity of our community. He has led efforts to produce and sustain a youth triathlon in Kansas for over 30 years, creating meaningful opportunities for young people to discover multisport. Through this work, Don has helped shape an entire generation of young athletes.
Don’s passion transcends personal achievement. Even facing serious health challenges, he refused to let go of the sport he loves. His return to competition at SMT wasn’t just about crossing a finish line, it was about showing every athlete, young and old, that perseverance and community support can overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Don’s legacy is measured not in race times, but in the hundreds of triathletes’ lives he’s touched and the triathlon community he’s built.
SPONSORS
