Frequently Asked Questions
General Information
Q: When is the 2025 YMCA Wrightsville Beach Triathlon?
A: Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Wrightsville Beach Park, NC.
Q: What organization benefits from this race?
A: The event raises over $20,000 annually for the YMCA of Southeastern North Carolina, supporting youth and family fitness programs.
Q: How long has the race been around?
A: It began in 1979, making it the longest-running triathlon on the East Coast.
Registration & Packet Pickup
Q: Do I need an ID to pick up my packet?
A: Yes. A photo ID is required for all participants, including relay team members. Each athlete must pick up their own packet.
Q: When and where can I pick up my packet?
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Thursday, Sept 25 – 3:00–6:00pm at Two Wheeler Dealer
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Friday, Sept 26 – 2:00–7:00pm at Wrightsville Beach Park
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Race Morning, Sept 27 – 5:00–6:30am at Wrightsville Beach Park.
Q: What comes in my race packet?
A: Race numbers, a swim cap, race swag, and safety pins (if needed).
Parking & Arrival
Q: Where should I park?
A: Parking is available at Wrightsville Beach Park, Town Hall, and designated grass fields near the park. Arrive early—lots fill after 5:45am. There is also overflow parking at the Bluewater Lot about 1/4 mile away. It is best to carpool if possible.
Q: How far is the swim start from transition?
A: About one mile from transition at Blockade Runner Beach Resort (sound side). Allow 20–25 minutes to walk.
Race Day
Q: What time does the race start?
A: The sprint triathlon starts at 6:50am with waves by division; youth races begin approximately at 8:00am, but will officially start when all athletes are out of the water from the main event.
Q: Is there a race morning checklist?
A: Yes. Key reminders:
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Pick up chip (5:00–6:30am)
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Body mark at home (hands + calves)
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Bring goggles, assigned swim cap, helmet, bike/run shoes, and race belt. Also a USAT Wetsuit if the water temperature is 78 degrees or below.
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Use restrooms at the park or on the way to the swim start
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Know your wave time.
Swim
Q: How long is the swim and what are the conditions?
A: Sprint swim = 1,350 yards (point-to-point in the Intracoastal Waterway). Usually aided by an incoming tide.
Q: Are wetsuits allowed?
A: Yes, if the water temperature is under 78°F. Between 78.1–83°F, wetsuits are optional but athletes will be ineligible for awards and ranking points.
Q: What if I need help in the water?
A: Roll onto your back and raise your hand. You may hold onto a kayak, canoe, or surfboard without penalty. Holding a motorized boat = disqualification.
Bike
Q: What is the bike course like?
A: One loop, 11 miles, including crossing the Wrightsville Beach drawbridge twice. Passing is prohibited on the bridge.
Q: Are helmets required?
A: Yes. Hard-shell helmets must be fastened before leaving transition.
Q: Can I wear headphones?
A: No headphones or audio devices are allowed.
Run
Q: How long is the run?
A: 5K (3.1 miles) on the John Nesbit Loop sidewalk. There are two water stations.
Q: Do I need to wear my bib on the run?
A: Yes, your bib must be visible on the front of your body when crossing the finish line. Failure results in a 2-minute penalty.
Youth Race
Q: What distances do youth athletes race?
A: Shorter swim (~200m), bike, and run courses modified from the sprint layout.
Q: When is the youth triathlon?
A: Starts at 8:00am, after the sprint race finishes.
Q: Are parents allowed to assist youth athletes?
A: No. Parents cannot swim, bike, or run with youth athletes. Pacing is against the rules.
Timing & Results
Q: What timing system is used?
A: ChampionChip Timing. Pick up your chip race morning between 5:30–6:45am.
Q: What if I lose my chip?
A: A $30 replacement fee will be charged.
Q: Where can I find results?
A: Live results are posted online throughout the race; full results will be available later on ymcawbtri.com .
Spectators & Post-Race
Q: Can spectators bike or run with athletes?
A: No. Doing so will disqualify the athlete.
Q: Where should spectators watch?
A: Stay on sidewalks around Wrightsville Beach Park and avoid interfering with athletes.
Q: Is there a post-race party?
A: Yes! Head to Lighthouse Beer and Wine after 9:00am. Athletes (21+) get a free beer with the tear-off ticket on their bib.
