We have attempted to assemble some of the frequently asked questions of Fat Rabbit Racing. We will continue to update the FAQ section throughout the year. If you have a question, please send it to us at info@fatrabbitracing.com.

General Questions

Q: Do I have to get body marked for my triathlon and open water swims?
A: Yes. Body marking allows us to easily identify athletes and aides us in safety issues. You may not body mark yourself.

Q: If I didn’t sign up for an event, can I still participate by using the course?
A: No, anyone who is not officially entered in the event will be removed from the course.

Q: Once registration closes, will you be forming a waiting list?
A: Yes, we will be forming a waiting list once registration closes. If your entry is not received in time you will be placed on our waiting list. You will be notified if you are placed on the waiting list and if we are able to register you in an event.

Q: Where can I get a USAT license?
A: USAT licenses are mandatory for anyone participating in a Fat Rabbit Racing Triathlon, Duathlon, or Aquathalon. If you are not already a USAT member you may purchase a one-day license for the event by submitting payment with your registration. If you would like to purchase a one-year USAT membership, please visit their website at http://www.usatriathlon.org for information. You may also purchase an annual USAT card through registration.

Q: Where can I get a USA Swimming license?
A: USA Swimming license are mandatory for anyone participating in a Fat Rabbit Racing Open Water Swim. If you are not already a USA Swimming member you may purchase a one-day license for the event by submitting payment with your registration. If you would like to purchase a one-year USA Swimming membership, please visit their website at http://www.usaswimming.org for information. You may also purchase an annual USA Swimming card through registration.

Q: If I already have a USAT or USA Swimming card, do I have to bring it with me to Packet Pick-Up?
A: Yes, if you do not bring your card with you, you will be required to purchase a one-day license.

Q: If I can’t make the event, can I receive a refund?
A: Please review our Cancellation & Refund Policy.

Q: Can I change a member of my Relay Team?
A: Yes, but you must do so in writing within 30 days of the event. The new member will be required to complete an entry form, all waivers, and all other registration procedures.

Q: If I can’t make the race, can I give my entry to a friend?
A: No, transfers are not accepted. Please review our transfer policy on the events page.

Q: Can I use decorations (balloons, etc.) to indicate where my things are in the transition area?
A: Yes, but they should not interfere with anyone else being able to easily and safely access their equipment. We reserve the right to remove any materials that will interfere with the safety and security of our competitors and their equipment

Swim Questions

Q: What is the water temperature of Lake Erie in September?
A: Lake Erie is a large open body of water. Therefore water temperature can vary dramatically from the high 50’s to the low 70’s. The average in the past few years has been 68 to 74 degrees.

Q: Do I need a wetsuit?
A: A wetsuit is required for the Great Lake Escape. Athletes will not be permitted to enter the water without a wetsuit. Wetsuits will be permitted at the Columbus International Triathlon and our Open Water Swim events (for the wetsuit division) if the water temperature does not exceed 84 degrees Fahrenheit. For events that are sanctioned by USAT, each age group participant shall be permitted to wear a wet suit without penalty up to and including a water temperature of 78 degrees Fahrenheit. When the water temperature is greater than 78 degrees, but less than 84 degrees Fahrenheit, age group participants may wear a wet suit at their own discretion, provided however that participants who wear a wet suit within this temperature range shall not be eligible for prizes or awards. Age group participants shall not wear wet suits in water temperatures equal to or greater than 84 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q: Can I rent a wetsuit?
A: We do not provide nor do we have a source for equipment rental. Additionally, we strongly discourage anyone from using equipment they have not trained with.

Q: Can I use any stroke in the swim portion?
A: Yes. Swimmers may use any stroke to propel themselves through the water, and may tread water or float.

Q: If I hang onto the lane lines or buoys will I be disqualified for doing so?
A: You may stop and rest during the swim, but you must not interfere with the progress of other swimmers. You may hang onto the guard boats or buoys without penalty.

Q: Do I have to wear swim goggles?
A: No, but it is recommended. All swims are in fresh water.

Q: Can I wear swim fins?
A: No. Any swimmer wearing any artificial propulsion device, including but not limited to fins, gloves, paddles, or floating devices of any kind shall be disqualified. Aqua socks are permitted.

Q: What is time trial start for the C.I.T and Open Water Swims?
A: A time trial start is a staggered start with athletes entering the water several seconds behind one another.

Bike Questions

Q: Can I use a tandem or recumbent bike in the race?
A: No.

Q: Do I have to get my bike inspected?
A: No, but we strongly urge you to do so. Many people experience technical problems on race day that could have been easily avoided if the bike had been inspected prior to the race. In order to avoid disappointment on race day we urge all competitors to have their bikes inspected no more than 3 weeks prior to the event. Please contact your local bike shop for additional information.

Q: What will the bike course be like?
A: Brief course descriptions and maps are posted on each event page.

Q: Can I wear Headphones?
A: Any participants who any time uses, wears or carries a headset, radio, headphones, or any other item described in USAT Rules Section 3.4 (i) shall be assessed a variable time penalty.

Q: Can I ride my bike in transition?
A: No. Athletes must mount or dismount their bike outside of transition. Athletes may run or carry their bikes in the transition area.