Nation's Triathlon Official Website

The "Nitty Gritty" Details (User Opinions)

Maya B.
Washington, DC

  (04-06-2010)

"Should be great. Can't wait to do it!"

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2010

Kaitlin S.
Washington, DC

  (04-02-2010)

"I am a HUGE fan of this race. Not only is the transition area HUGE but its really well marked, making it not only easy to find my bike the day before, but during and after the race as well. They let you swim part of the swim course the day before so any fear of swimming in the potomac was quickly gone and the bike and run course were beautiful. I did it in 2008, came back in 2009 and have already registered for 2010!"

Reviewed by a: Repeat Participant for 2009

Robert W.
Franklin, TN

  (03-24-2010)

"First off - a great race and alot of fun, Swim on the Potomac was great, not choppy, buoys were pretty well marked and abundant safety out on the water! Bike was on the Rock Creek Parkway - gorgeous. They had more than enough aid stations on the run, and great crowd/spectator participation! They did change the run course this (2009) year and although the run was still great, I really did want to finish on Pennsylvania Ave! I would definitely do this one again! Way more than enough Port-a-potties but they were not placed great in the transition - out of the way - but that is my only complaint, and not really a complaint and should not keep anyone from doing this great Tri! It was my first Olympic distance - terrifically organized and a great course."

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2009

Michelle H.
Washington, DC

  (03-24-2010)

"Loved it the first time I did it and loved it in 2009 too!"

Reviewed by a: Repeat Participant for 2009

Christopher S.
New York, NY

  (11-02-2009)

"In 2009 the organizers moved the finish of the race from Pennsylvania Avenue, which produced instant classic finish line photos with the Capitol dome in the background, to a spot much closer to transition. On the one hand, this eliminated a tedious mile-long walk back to transition after the race. On the other hand, it meant that they had to limit the number of people going back into transition after the race to make sure that those still on the course weren't too crowded as they left for the run. This meant that the finish area got crowded and confusing for those who were faster and/or in earlier waves.

Apart from that, I would say that the organizers have figured out how to make the most of the course. The swim is fine, and if you're worried, there's a practice swim you can do the day before. The bike is along a mostly shaded parkway, very quiet and tranquil. The run puts you along the river and near the Jefferson Memorial, so more postcard moments there. Keep in mind that DC can still be pretty hot this time of year, so keep your hydration steady!"

Reviewed by a: Repeat Participant for 2009

Ron G.
Havertown, PA

  (10-05-2009)

"1st time Nation's Tri and only my second Tri overall. Had a blast. Loved the course, weather was perfect. Definitely will do it again."

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2009

Michelle H.
WASHINGTON, DC

  (08-14-2009)

"This is one of my favorite races of the year. The course is amazing and there is nothing quite like racing through the Nation's Capitol and my own town!"

Reviewed by a: Repeat Participant for 2008

Laurey L.
Bronxville, NY

  (04-24-2009)

"What excitement to run down to the finish with the Capitol Building in the background! The Nation's Triathlon is a wonderful experience and a scenic course. The race is very well organized and the environment is electric.

The negatives: POTOMAC RIVER (there's a reason those mutant animals were found there) & not enough bathroom options along the course(but ample in transition)"

Reviewed by a: First Time Participant for 2008