Naples Athlete Guide 2015

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M O R F R E O G T A C S E S R E I D M E C A R E TH Dear HITS Triathletes, I am so excited that HITS Triathlon Series is returning to Naples, Florida for our fourth time! The team is ready and eager to see you at this premier winter triathlon event!

Our mission is to deliver an exceptional national series to triathletes from all corners of the world as well as introduce the sport of triathlon to the masses, in turn creating some of the future greats of the sport.

The local community has been a pleasure to work with and I would like to personally thank Collier County Sheriff’s Office, Collier County Growth Management, Collier County Parks & Recreation, Sports Council of Collier County, North Napes Fire Control and Rescue District, Collier County EMS/Fire Department, Naples Cyclery for its bike tech support and the many other entities that have assisted us.

The 2014 HITS Triathlon Series season was an experience I will never forget – challenges, successes and new friends. For the 2015 season, we are committed to continuing to provide you with a race experience that feels good, makes you sweat and rewards your efforts. Above all else, HITS Triathlon Series is here for YOU. I wish you all the best of luck on race day and hope that you, your family and your friends enjoy the HITS Triathlon Series experience. Again, we want to thank you for joining us and hope to see you again and again throughout the year.

Best,

Mark H. Wilson, Race Director E N D U R A N C E

ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

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w o n s k e ri to e g S n n G e ttiT ri a th l o HITS Tom Struzzieri | President & CEO Tom Struzzieri is the founder of HITS, Inc., the largest equine show jumping production company in the world, and has been running world-class events since 1977. Through Tom’s leadership, HITS has introduced three of the most important advances in the sport of show jumping, starting with the Marshall & Sterling League, a national grass roots league which began in 1991 and now encompasses more than 1,700 events annually. In 2010, he created and produced the Pfizer $1 Million Grand Prix, the largest show jumping purse in the world. Lastly, in 2011, building off the success of the Pfizer Million, Tom introduced the first-ever Diamond Mills $500,000 Hunter Prix Final, aimed at engaging a large audience of equestrians who, until then, didn’t have an event of such prestige to call their own.

Tom is renowned in the event world as being able to blend world-class competition with national and international athletes, while at the same time developing and nurturing entry-level competitors. In 2006 he joined forces with Leonard Green & Partners, L.P. a California-based private equity firm, to expand and grow HITS, Inc. As a result of this alliance, Tom was able to bring his visionary thinking to the sport of triathlon with the introduction of the HITS Triathlon Series.

Tom’s foray into triathlon was inspired by his own personal experience with the sport after receiving training sessions with accomplished triathlon coach Mark H. Wilson for his 50th birthday. Wanting to set a positive and powerful example to his three children that fitness and good health is an essential ingredient for living life to its fullest, Tom embraced the challenges and rewards of his training. As many others before him, he became instantly hooked on the sense of fulfillment, well-being and personal accomplishment that came from his triathlon training. Overcoming personal obstacles with the challenges of the swim, bike and run only made it more of a passion and eventually a business interest. Tom recently completed his first half-distance race. His wife, Jane, is also a triathlete, having recently competed in sprint distance races.

Inspired not only by his new-found personal passion, but also the similarities to his experiences in the equestrian sport, Tom has now set out to join forces with Mark to offer the world of triathlon something new and different with the HITS Triathlon Series. The combination of Tom’s skills in the world of event management and Mark’s endless knowledge of triathlon make them a perfect duo to bring forth a fresh, innovative concept that will engage existing athletes and help to inspire new ones to grow the sport.

E N D U R A N C E

ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

ow es n k ri to e g S n n o l tti G e T ri a th HITS MARK H. WILSON | RACE DIRECTOR Mark H. Wilson is a highly-accomplished triathlete and coach with more than 20 years of experience. As an athlete, Mark has achieved success as an Ironman 70.3 World Championship Finisher and was a seven-time finisher in the Ironman USA Lake Placid with a P.R. of 10:59:40. Other career highlights include eighttime finisher in the S.O.S. (Survival of the Shawangunks), Escape from Alcatraz Qualifier – Westchester Triathlon and he was also a six-time USAT All-American.

Being a competitive runner since the age of 12, Mark was excited about the prospect of being as fit as the triathletes he had seen in national magazines. They seemed like the fittest people on the planet. Having already done several marathons, it seemed feasible to Mark to jump right into the half-distance triathlon; it went very well and lead to a lifelong interest/profession in the sport.

As a professional coach, Mark has performed countless triathlon training camps all over the United States as a USAT Level I and lI Certified Coach and thousands of hours of individual training with more than one thousand athletes. His coaching honors run the gamut and include Ironman Triathlon World Championship, Ironman 70.3 World Championship, ITU Olympic Triathlon World Championship, ITU Sprint Triathlon World Championship, Lifetime Fitness National Championship, USAT Age-Group All-Americans, ITU World Championship Qualifier – Athena Champion, and USAT Ironman National Championship – Athena Champion, as well as Hudson Valley Magazine 2008 Triathlon Coach of the Year, just to name a few.

Mark is also a Professional Life Coach and the Founder/President of the Hudson Valley Triathlon Club, which has more than 100 annual members. His contagious positive energy and passion for triathlon has made him one of the most beloved coaches in the sport. One of Mark’s coaching mantras perhaps sums it up best: Participating in the sport of triathlon and HVTC may cause radiant health and spiritual well-being.

Through his uncanny motivational and training skills, Mark has inspired hundreds of athletes to pursue their dreams and personal goals. It is this very reason why Tom Struzzieri, HITS, Inc. President & CEO, was moved to join forces with Mark to introduce the all-new HITS Triathlon Series. The combination of Tom’s skills in the world of event management and Mark’s endless knowledge of triathlon make them a perfect duo to bring forth a fresh, innovative concept that will engage existing athletes and help to inspire new ones to grow the sport.

From the minds of Tom Struzzieri and Mark H. Wilson, HITS Triathlon Series is proud to present “a distance for everyone! TM”

E N D U R A N C E

ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

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1) DON’T give in to the temptation to train too much and/or too close to race day. You will not be able to positively influence your fitness level in the days leading up to a race; however, you can negatively impact your race by training during this time (training meaning anything of significant duration or intensity).

2)

In the few days prior to a race, DON’T drink excessive

amounts of water in the hopes of “getting a head start” on your fluid requirements. Consumption of water in ounces equivalent to roughly .5 to .6 of your body weight in pounds is a good gauge of how much you should be consuming daily. (Example: A 180-pound athlete should drink approximately 90-108 ounces of water daily.) However, if you haven’t been following this recommendation consistently, don’t start now, as this will overwhelm your body with too much fluid too soon, which may increase the potential for hyponatremia.

3) Leading up to a race, DON’T stuff yourself with extra food in the hopes of “carbo loading.” The time period for carbohydrate loading (i.e., maximizing muscle glycogen storage capabilities) has, for all intents and purposes, passed. In essence, “carbo loading” is what you did in the 0-60 minutes after all of your training workouts. That’s when the glycogen synthase enzyme–which controls glycogen storage–is most active, and that’s how you topped off your glycogen stores. Any excess food that you eat in the days prior to a race is either going to be passed through the bowels or stored in adipose cells… neither of those things will benefit you.

4) DON’T consume extra sodium (salt) in the hopes of “topping off your body stores” prior to a race. Since the average American already consumes approximately 6,000 to 8,000 mg per day (if not more), an amount well above the maximum recommended dose of 2,300- 2,400 mg per day, there is absolutely no need to increase that amount in the days prior to a race. (Hint: Adopting a low-sodium diet will do wonders for both your health and athletic performance.) High sodium intake, especially in the days leading up to a race, is a recipe for disaster because it will greatly increase the potential for disruption of the hormonal mechanisms that control sodium regulation, recirculation, and conservation. Be particularly cognizant of the salt content in your foods, especially if you go out to eat. Dining out can easily increase your already-high salt intake dramatically (into double figures!).

E N D U R A N C E

ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

The Hammer Nutrition Fuels & Supplements Everything You Need To Know!

5) DON’T overeat the night before a race, thinking that you’re “carbo loading.” You can’t positively affect muscle glycogen storage capabilities the night before a race, a time when the glycogen synthase enzyme–the enzyme that controls glycogen storage–is inactive. (Hint: That’s why post-workout refueling is so important.) Consume complex carbohydrates, some high-quality protein, and low-to-no saturated fat; be sure to drink sufficient amounts (but not too much) of water. Skip the alcohol, fatty foods, and dessert… save those “rewards” for after the race. Eat clean, eat until you’re satisfied, and then call it a night.

6) If your workout or race is over 60 minutes in length, DON’T consume any calories three hours prior to the race. The first fuel your body will use when the race begins is muscle glycogen. Eating a prerace meal at the wrong time will negatively affect how your body utilizes its finite stores of glycogen, which will negatively impact your performance.

7) DON’T sacrifice sleep to eat; it’s not necessary. A better strategy than eating 1-2 hours prior to a 60+ minute workout or race is to consume 1-2 servings of Hammer Gel 5-10 minutes prior to the start.

This will top off liver glycogen stores nicely (the goal of the prerace meal) and provide some calories to augment muscle glycogen stores at the beginning of exercise, without negatively affecting how muscle glycogen is utilized. © 2011, Endurance Marketing Group. This information is copyright protected. Please feel free to distribute this information as long as this copyright notice and EMG’s phone number and/or URL are included. Content must remain unchanged and original authorship acknowledged.

Steve Born is a technical advisor for Hammer Nutrition with well over a decade of involvement in the health food industry. He has worked with hundreds of athletes—ranging from the recreational athlete to world-class professional athlete—helping them to optimize their supplement/fueling program. Steve is a three-time RAAM finisher, the 1994 Furnace Creek 508 Champion, 1999 runner-up, the only cyclist in history to complete a Double Furnace Creek 508, and is the holder of two Ultra Marathon Cycling records. In February 2004 Steve was inducted into the Ultra Marathon Cycling Hall of Fame.

E N D U R A N C E

ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

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E N D U R A N C E PROUD SPONSORS OF

ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

D E H SC

F EVEN O ULE

TS

Friday, January 9, 2015 – Race Site at Vanderbilt Beach • 2-7 pm: • 2-7 pm: • 3-4 pm: • 4-5 pm:

Packet and Timing Chip Pick-Up for all distances* HITS Fitness Expo Athlete Meeting for Half and Full distance athletes Bike Drop-Off for Half and Full distance athletes

Saturday, January 10, 2015 – Race Site at Vanderbilt Beach • 5-6 am: • 5-6:30 am: • 6 am - 8 pm: • 6:40 am: • 7 am: • 2 pm: • 2-8 pm: • 3-8 pm: • Midnight:

Additional Packet and Timing Chip Pick-up for Half and Full distance athletes Bike and Gear Drop-Off for Half and Full distance athletes HITS Fitness Expo Transition area closed to Half and Full distance athletes Half male and Full male races start Half distance Awards** Packet and Timing Chip Pick-Up for Sprint, Olympic and Open distance athletes Athlete Dinner Transition area closes

Sunday, January 11, 2015 – Race Site at Vanderbilt Beach • 5 - 6 am: • 5 - 6:30 am: • 6 am – 3 pm: • 6:40 am: • 6:50 am: • 7 am: • 7:03 am • 7:05 am: • 7:30 am: • 7:40 am: • 7:43 am: • 9:15 am: • 10 am: • 10 am-11 am: • 11:15 am: • 11 am - 12 pm: • 12 pm: • 12:30 pm: • 1:30 pm: • 3 pm:

Additional Packet and Timing Chip Pick-up for Sprint and Olympic distance athletes Bike and Gear Drop-Off for Sprint and Olympic distance athletes HITS Fitness Expo Transition area closed to Sprint distance athletes Athlete Meeting for Sprint athletes at beach Sprint male wave start Sprint female wave start Transition area closed to Olympic distance athletes Athlete Meeting for Olympic athletes at beach Olympic male wave start Olympic female wave start Sprint distance Awards Ceremony** Full distance Awards Ceremony** Packet and Timing Chip Pick-Up for Open distance athletes Olympic distance Awards Ceremony** Bike and Gear Drop-Off for Open distance athletes Athlete Meeting for Open distance athletes HITS Open race starts HITS Open Awards Ceremony** Transition area closed to Open, Sprint and Olympic distance athletes

* It is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that Half and Full athletes pick up their packets on Friday. ** PLEASE NOTE: Athletes MUST be present at their Awards Ceremony to receive an award. Unclaimed awards may be shipped if request is made within two weeks after the event. Athlete is responsible for a $10 shipping and handling fee.

Important Addresses / Phone Numbers • Race Site - Vanderbilt Beach | 239 Vanderbilt Beach Rd | Naples, FL 34108 • Official Bike Shop – Naples Cyclery | 813 Vanderbilt Beach Rd | Naples, FL 34108

Questions? Call 845.247.7275 prior to race weekend or email us at info@HitsEndurance.com.

E N D U R A N C E

ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

Receive

20% OFF

STAY

TOP 10 HYDRATION TIPS

YOUR PURCHASE Only at FUELBELT.COM USE CODE HITS13 hits14

1. FIND A BASELINE FOR YOUR SWEAT RATE Weigh yourself before and after an hour run. You will need to drink 20 – 24oz of liquid for every pound lost. Additionally, you can check your urine’s color.

It should be pale but not colorless. If it is too dark, you need to hydrate more.

If it is colorless, you may be over-hydrating.

2015 PRODUCT 2013 RECOMENDATIONS Every distance will require different hydration needs for each individual. The following product recommendations are geared towards helping provide the proper amount of hydration based on the specific distance.

OPEN

HYDRATED

100m swim • 3 mi bike • 1 mi run

Sprint® 10oz. Palm Holder

2. DRINK BEFORE, DURING AND AFTER YOUR EXERCISE If you get behind with your hydration, it is better to slow down and drink than to skip it entirely.

3. WHAT AND WHEN YOU DRINK IS DETERMINED BY MANY VARIABLES These variables include length of run, outside temperature and your pace.

Water or a low-calorie sports drink will suffice for runs under an hour. For one to two hours, choose a sports drink with 60g of carbs and 300 – 1000mg of sodium per 32oz. For runs that are longer than 2 hours, use an endurance sports drink.

4. EXPERIMENT AND PRACTICE YOUR HYDRATION PLAN Don’t wait until race day to try your hydration plan — experiment and practice during your training. Keep a log of what works for you to determine your best race day fluid replacement strategy.

SPRINT

750m swim • 12.4 mi bike • 3.1 mi run

Slice 18oz. Palm Holder

5. DRINK SMALL AMOUNTS AT ONE TIME, BUT DRINK OFTEN This will allow for proper absorption. A good rule of thumb is 6 – 8oz every 15 minutes. FuelBelt bottles hold 7oz for easy monitoring of liquid intake.

6. AVOID COMMERCIAL SOFT DRINKS Avoid empty calories and choose an electrolyte sports drink instead.

7. PRE-HYDRATE If you are an early morning runner, keep a glass of water by your bedside and hydrate throughout the night.

OLYMPIC

1500m swim • 24.8 mi bike • 6.2 mi run

Revenge® R2O / One size fits all

8. GIVE YOUR BLADDER A BREAK Stop drinking one hour before a race to give your bladder a break and help settle your stomach.

9. STICK TO WHAT YOU KNOW In the days leading up to a race, do not experiment with food or drink. Keep to what you know and have been training with to avoid any surprises on race day.

10. BE SMART, KNOW YOUR LIMITS Consult your personal physician before engaging in physical exercise.

HALF

FULL

1.2 mi swim • 56 mi bike • 13.1 mi run

2.4 mi swim • 112 mi bike • 26.2 mi run

Revenge® 4-Bottle / Custom Fit

Revenge® R3O / One size fits all

TH E

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FUELBELT.COM

= Buoy

= Porta-John

= Medical

= Aid Station

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= Full

= Half

= Olympic

= Sprint

= Open

Course Key

Immokalee Rd. (County Rte. 846)

9100

41

8500

Vanderbilt Dr.

319 Main Street, Saugerties, NY 12477 845.247.7275 | HitsEndurance.com

Start / Finish

Beach

Bluebill Ave.

41

9400

Open Turnaround

Gulf of Mexico

DelnorWiggins Pass State Park

FULL: Saturday, January 10, 2015 • Swim: 2.4 miles (two loops) 1) - Beach start at Vanderbilt Beach 2) - Swim two loops in counter-clockwise direction 3) - Exit water to T1

HALF: Saturday, January 10, 2015 • Swim: 1.2 miles (one loop) 1) - Beach start at Vanderbilt Beach 2) - Swim one loop in counter-clockwise direction 3) - Exit water to T1

OLYMPIC: Sunday, January 11, 2015 • Swim: 1,500 meters (two loops) 1) - Beach start at Vanderbilt Beach 2) - Swim two loops in counter-clockwise direction 3) - Exit water to T1

SPRINT: Sunday, January 11, 2015 • Swim: 750 meters (one loop) 1) - Beach start at Vanderbilt Beach 2) - Swim one loop in counter-clockwise direction 3) - Exit water to T1

OPEN: Sunday, January 11, 2015 • Swim: 100 meters (out-n-back) 1) - Beach start at Vanderbilt Beach 2) - Swim one out-n-back in counter-clockwise direction 3) - Exit water to T1

C M I SW MAP E S OUR

Gulfsh

ore Dr.

5

Vanderbilt Beach Rd.

Bluebill Ave.

Start / Finish

Gulfshore Dr.

41

= Full

= Half

= Olympic

= Sprint

= Open

5

75

Sprint Turnaround

= Mile Marker

= Porta-John

= Medical

= Aid Station

Course Key

10

10

Golden Gate Blvd. W.

Collier Blvd. / County Rd. 951

Immokalee Rd. / County Rd. 846

Olympic Turnaround

20

Oil Well Rd. / Country Rd. 858

• Bike: 24.8 miles (out-n-back) 1) - Exit T1, L onto Vanderbilt Beach Rd. 2) - R on Collier Blvd./County Rd. 951 3) - L on Golden Gate Blvd. W. 4) - Turnaround at 12.4 miles and return on same route to T2

Half Turnaround

Ave Maria

30

Oratory

50

County Rd. 846

• Bike: 112 miles (out-n-back) 1) - Exit T1, L onto Vanderbilt Beach Rd. 2) - L on Collier Blvd./County Rd. 951 3) - R on Immokalee Rd./County Rd. 846 4) - R on Oil Well Rd./County Rd. 858 5) - L on County Line Rd./County Rd. 858 6) - L on County Rd. 846 Full Turnaround 7) - Turn around at 53 miles 8) - R on Ave Maria Blvd.

9) - R around Oratory 10) - L on Ave Maria Blvd.

11) - R on Oil Well Rd. 12) - Return on same route to T2

• Bike: 12.4 miles (out-n-back) 1) - Exit T1, L onto Vanderbilt Beach Rd. 2) - Turn around at 6.2 miles and return on same route to T2

OLYMPIC: Sunday, January 11, 2015

FULL: Saturday, January 10, 2015

SPRINT: Sunday, January 11, 2015

a

40

319 Main Street, Saugerties, NY 12477 845.247.7275 | HitsEndurance.com

29

29

BAREFOOT BEACH PRESERVE COUNTY PARK

Bike Course

3 miles/12.4 miles/24.8 miles/56 miles/112 miles

• Bike: 56 miles (out-n-back) 1) - Exit T1, L onto Vanderbilt Beach Rd. 2) - L on Collier Blvd./County Rd. 951 3) - R on Immokalee Rd./County Rd. 846 4) - R on Oil Well Rd./County Rd. 858 5) - Turn around at 28 miles and return on same route to T2

• Bike: 3 miles (out-n-back) 1) - Exit T1, L onto Vanderbilt Beach Rd. 2) - L on Vanderbilt Dr. 3) - L on Bluebill Ave. 4) - L on Gulfshore Dr. 3) - L on Vanderbilt Beach Rd. to T2

County Line Rd. / County Rd. 858

Naples, Florida

HALF: Saturday, January 10, 2015

OPEN: Sunday, January 11, 2015

e.

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Vanderbilt Dr.

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Ave Maria Blvd.

C KE I B MAP E S OUR

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6

Bonita Beach Rd.

Course Key = Aid Station

= Open

Run Course

5

1 mile/3.1 miles/6.2 miles/13.1 miles/26.2 miles

= Sprint

Vanderbilt Dr.

Naples, Florida

= Full

Olympic Turnaround

3 41 DelnorWiggins Pass State Park

2 Bluebill Ave.

Immokalee Rd.

Sprint Turnaround

Open Turnaround

Gulf of Mexico 319 Main Street, Saugerties, NY 12477 845.247.7275 | HitsEndurance.com

Vanderbilt Dr.

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Gulf S

FULL: Saturday, January 10, 2015 • Run: 26.2 miles (two out-n-backs) 1) – Exit T2, R onto Gulfshore Ct. 2) – L on South Bay Dr. 3) – R on Gulfshore Dr. 4) – R on Bluebill Ave. 5) – L on Vanderbilt Dr. 6) – L on Bonita Beach Rd. 7) – Turn around at 6.55 miles and return on same route to second out-n-back to Finish

5

4

OLYMPIC: Sunday, January 11, 2015 • Run: 6.2 miles (out-n-back) 1) – Exit T2, R onto Gulfshore Ct. 2) – L on South Bay Dr. 3) – R on Gulfshore Dr. 4) – R on Bluebill Ave. 5) – L on Vanderbilt Dr. 6) – Turn around at 3.1 miles and return on same route to Finish HALF: Saturday, January 10, 2015 • Run: 13.1 miles (out-n-back) 1) – Exit T2, R onto Gulfshore Ct. 2) – L on South Bay Dr. 3) – R on Gulfshore Dr. 4) – R on Bluebill Ave. 5) – L on Vanderbilt Dr. 6) – L on Bonita Beach Rd. 7) – Turn around at 6.55 miles and return on same route to Finish

= Porta-John

= Half

OPEN: Sunday, January 11, 2015 • Run: 1 mile (out-n-back) 1) – Exit T2, R onto Gulfshore Ct. 2) – L on South Bay Dr. 3) – R on Gulfshore Dr. 4) – Turn around at .5 miles and return on same route to Finish SPRINT: Sunday, January 11, 2015 • Run: 3.1 miles (out-n-back) 1) – Exit T2, R onto Gulfshore Ct. 2) – L on South Bay Dr. 3) – R on Gulfshore Dr. 4) – R on Bluebill Ave. 5) – Turn around at 1.55 miles and return on same route to Finish

= Medical

= Olympic

Start / Finish

Vanderb

ilt Beac

h Rd.

= Mile Marker

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Packet Pick-up: Vanderbilt Beach | 239 Vanderbilt Beach Rd | Naples, FL 34108 • Friday, January 9: 2-7 pm (all distances) • Saturday, January 10: 5-6 am (Half and Full athletes)

2-8 pm (Sprint, Olympic and Open athletes) • Sunday, January 11: 5-6 am (Sprint, Olympic and Open athletes)

10-11 am (Open athletes) Athletes must pick up their OWN packets and there will be no exceptions to this policy. Please Note: All Relay Team members must be present and check in together.

Please bring the following items with you to athlete check-in: • Photo Identification, i.e. driver’s license, passport, any government issued identification • USAT card to show proof of current USAT membership. PLEASE NOTE: If you are not a USAT member or you forget your card, you will be required to sign the USAT waiver and purchase a $12 USAT one day license.

• Official Military Identification • Challenged Athlete Documentation • If you are a professional athlete, you are required to submit your USAT Pro Card at check-in.

Packet pick-up prior to race day is highly recommended – the last thing you want to do on race day morning is wait in line for your packet!

Athlete Wristbands At athlete check-in you will be presented with a wristband in your race packet. You must wear your wristband for access to all weekend functions at HITS Naples. You will not have access to the Transition Area before or after your race without this wristband.

Bike & Gear Check-In Bike and gear check-in for Half and Full distance athletes is scheduled for Friday, January 9 from 4-5 pm and again Saturday, January 10 from 5 -6:30 am. The Transition Area will close at 6:40 am to all Half and Full distance athletes. Security will be provided.

Mandatory bike and gear check-in for Sprint and Olympic distance athletes is scheduled for Sunday, January 11 from 5-6:30 am. The Transition Area will close at 6:40 am to all Sprint distance athletes and at 7:05 am to all Olympic distance athletes.

Mandatory bike and gear check-in for Open distance athletes is scheduled for Sunday, January 11 from 11 am – 12 pm.

Special Needs Bags During athlete check-in, athletes in the FULL DISTANCE ONLY will receive two bags: • 1 Run special needs bag • 1 Bike special needs bag Special needs stations will be located near the midpoint of the bike and run courses.

Transition Bags Athletes in all distances will need to provide their own transition bags and will be allowed to set up their transition area during bike and gear check-in. Transition bag identification stickers will be provided at athlete check-in.

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ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

Bike Information Bike shipping is available through Naples Cyclery, the Official Bike Shop of HITS Naples. Please visit NaplesCyclery.com for more information.

PLEASE NOTE: ALL Full distance runners MUST have reflective tape on their shoes, shorts and tops if you plan on running after dark. In the event that you are still biking after 4:30 pm, bikes must be equipped with safety lights.

Roads & Parking Street parking and parking garages are located around Vanderbilt Beach. No roads will be closed, all roads are open to traffic. You must stay to the right on the shoulder at all times. At every intersection, you must sit up, slow down and look for traffic, and obey the traffic control or as directed by law enforcement.

Dog Policy HITS Triathlon Series adheres to a strict No Dogs policy.

Athlete Meetings HITS Triathlon Series recommends that ALL athletes attend one of the offered Athlete Meetings. Athlete Meetings will take place at the race site as follows: • Half & Full distances: • Sprint distance: • Olympic distance: • Open distance:

3 pm 6:30 am 7:30 am 12 pm

Friday, January 10 Sunday, January 11 at race start Sunday, January 11 at race start Sunday, January 11 at race start

TriTats HITS Triathlon Series will be using TriTats, a triathlon-specific body-marking system, and will not offer traditional body marking before each race distance. Each race packet will include all necessary numbers and body tattoos with complete application instructions. Body tattoos should be applied to the outside of the left calf and right upper arm. For removal, use any brand nail polish remover or similar product. For more information, visit TriTats.com.

Timing Chips Athletes will receive a timing chip at check-in and will be responsible for wearing the chip at all times while racing.

Fasten it to your ankle, facing outward, over your wetsuit with the Velcro strap provided before the swim and leave it on until after you finish the run. If you lose your timing chip at any time during the race, please notify a timing official and you can receive a new one at transition. Volunteers will help you remove the chip at the finish line. If you do not start the race, you are responsible for returning the chip to timing. If you drop out or are pulled from the race at any time, turn in your chip to a race official. Failure to do so may disqualify you from participating in future HITS Triathlon Series events. It is essential that we know where you are on the course at all times for your safety and our peace of mind. If you are transported to any medical station, the medical staff will take responsibility for your chip.

By picking up your race number and timing chip, you are guaranteeing that you will return the chip to timing, or you will be billed $25 for its replacement. NO CHIP = NO TIME. Athlete Tracking HITS Triathlon Series is excited to partner with ITS YOUR RACE, the leading mobile app provider for endurance events. The free ITS YOUR RACE mobile app (available on either Android or iOS devices) enables participants to have an interactive experience in the race and provides spectators with a closer connection to the event. The app will give users the opportunity to enable live athlete tracking for the Half and Full Distance. As live timing data is sent to the app throughout race day, HITS Naples spectators can follow Full and Half Distance athletes along a course map. All athletes can also choose to make their race a social event by setting the app to post their finish time on Facebook and Twitter automatically. The free app also includes features for all athletes such as course maps, events, news, expo information and local places of interest.

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ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

Race Timing & Cut-Offs Individual cut-offs for each distance and segment of the races are as follows: Swim Cut-off: Sprint Males

Sprint Females

Olympic Males

Olympic Females Half Full

7:30 am (Maximum time 30 minutes) 7:33 am (Maximum time 30 minutes) 8:40 am (Maximum time 1 hour) 8:43 am (Maximum time 1 hour) 8:10 am (Maximum time 1 hour, 10 minutes) 9:20 am (Maximum time 2 hours, 20 minutes)

Bike Cut-off: Sprint Males

Sprint Females

Olympic Males

Olympic Females Half Full

9:00 am (Maximum time 2 hours) 9:03 am (Maximum time 2 hours) 11:10 am (Maximum time 3 hours, 30 minutes) 11:13 am (Maximum time 3 hours, 30 minutes) 12:10 pm (Maximum time 5 hours, 10 minutes) 5:20 pm (Maximum time 10 hours, 20 minutes)

Run Cut-off: Sprint Males

Sprint Females

Olympic Males

Olympic Females Half Full

10:00 am (Maximum time 3 hours) 10:03 am (Maximum time 3 hours) 12:40 pm (Maximum time 5 hours) 12:43 pm (Maximum time 5 hours) 3:30 pm (Maximum time 8 hours, 30 minutes) 12:00 am / Midnight (Maximum time 17 hours)

Aid Stations There will be aid stations approximately every 10 - 20 miles on the bike courses of the Half and Full distances.

There will be aid stations approximately every 1 - 1.5 miles on the run courses of the Sprint, Olympic, Half and Full distances.

Each bike aid station for the Half and Full will offer: Water, Sunscreen, Hammer Gel, Vaseline, HEED, Endurolytes Each run aid station for the Half and Full will offer: Water*, Pretzels, Hot Chicken Broth, Ice*, Glow Sticks, Saltine Crackers, HEED*, Sponges*, Gummy Bears, Hammer Gel*, Vaseline*, Grapes, Endurolytes*, Defizzed Cola, Sunscreen*, Snickers, Orange Slices, Cookies, Banana Halves * These items will also be available for Sprint and Olympic Athletes.

Bicycle & Gear Recovery Mandatory bike and gear recovery for Open, Sprint and Olympic distance athletes is before 3 pm on race day.

Mandatory bike and gear recovery for Half and Full distance athletes is before midnight on race day. In the event of an emergency, your emergency contact person will be contacted and allowed to claim your bike and gear from transition. Any bikes or gear left in the transition area after the transition area closes will be considered lost and found. Lost and found inquiries should be sent via e-mail to info@HitsEndurance.com. You must have your athlete wristband on in order to claim your bike and gear.

Lost & Found If you lose any equipment during the race weekend, please see the HITS staff at the on-site administration tent to claim it. After the event, lost and found inquiries should be directed to info@HitsEndurance.com.

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ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

BICYCLE CAFÉ

S ULE R Event Sanction & Rules All HITS Triathlons Series events are sanctioned by USA Triathlon (USAT) and will enforce all USAT rules and conduct guidelines. Doping and drafting are strictly prohibited at all distances at every HITS Triathlon Series event. Race Marshals will be present on course penalizing athletes who do not abide by the rules. Please visit UsaTriathlon.org to view a complete set of the competitive rules.

Finish Line Policy Per USAT rules, HITS Triathlon Series will not allow friends and/or family members of athletes to cross the finish line or enter the finish chute with participating athletes at any distance in order to ensure the safety of all participants, volunteers and spectators. Time and space will be provided at the finish line for celebration. Athletes who choose not to respect this policy will receive an automatic disqualification.

Headphones / Ear Bud Policy Per USAT rules, the use of headphones, ear buds, iPods, MP3 players or any other listening device is strictly prohibited during all HITS Triathlon Series races. Athletes are welcome to use these devices in transition areas only, but will not be allowed to use them on the swim, bike and/or run courses of any distance. Athletes who choose not to respect this policy will receive an automatic disqualification.

Wetsuit Policy Wetsuits are not required, but are highly recommended for all HITS Triathlon Series events. The expected water temperature in Naples, FL is between 64-69° Fahrenheit and proper swimwear is ultimately at the discretion of each individual athlete.

USAT General Rules of Conduct & Penalties 3.1 Preparation and Training. No person shall participate in a triathlon or other multi-sport events unless such person: a. is trained adequately for that specific event, as might be expected of a prudent person entering a similar competition, and b. is in excellent health, based on recent training, physical examinations, if any, and generally accepted standards of good health.

3.2 Age Group Competition. a. All age group athletes must participate and compete in the age group division corresponding to the athlete’s age on December 31 of the year of the event. b. Clydesdale/Athena Categories. The official minimum weight standard for this category is 220 pounds for men, 165 pounds for women, to be monitored by the local race director. The age breakdown will be 39 years of age and under and 40 years of age and over.

3.3 General Conduct. At or during an event, or while at the event site, all participants must: a. Act in compliance with these Competitive Rules; b. Conduct themselves in a manner that is not offensive in any way to fellow participants, spectators, officials or volunteers and is considered reasonable and acceptable in the community; c. Treat all participants, officials, volunteers and spectators with fairness, respect and courtesy; d. Refrain from the use of abusive language or conduct; and e. After violating any of the Competitive Rules, report such violation to the Head Referee or retire from the event.

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ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

3.4 Race Conduct. All participants in USA Triathlon sanctioned events must adhere to the rules in this Section 3.4: a. Entire Course. Participants must cover the prescribed course in its entirety. It is the participant’s responsibility to know the course. Any violation of this section, even if no advantage is gained, shall result in a variable time penalty, unless the Head Referee in his sole discretion determines that (i) the violation was substantial and resulted in an unfair time advantage, or (ii) the violation constituted endangerment under Section 3.4(l). In the event the Head Referee makes such a determination, the penalty shall be disqualification. b. Unsportsmanlike Conduct. Participants shall refrain from unsportsmanlike conduct, including the improper use of language or conduct directed toward an official. Violations of this Section shall result in disqualification or a variable time penalty depending on the severity of the violation as determined in the sole discretion of the Head Referee. c. Obstruction. Participants shall refrain from intentionally or accidentally blocking, charging, obstructing, or interfering with the forward progress of another participant. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty. d. Unauthorized Assistance. No participant shall accept from any person (other than a race official) physical assistance in any form, including food, drink, equipment, support, pacing, a replacement bicycle or bicycle parts, unless an express exception has been granted and approved, in writing, by USA Triathlon. The receipt of information regarding the progress, split times, or location of other competitors on the race course shall not be considered the acceptance of unauthorized assistance. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty. e. Re-entry. Upon leaving the course, a participant shall re-enter the course and continue at the same point of departure.

Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty, unless the Head Referee in his sole discretion determines that (i) the violation was substantial and resulted in an unfair time advantage, or (ii) the violation constituted endangerment under Section 3.4(l), in which case the penalty shall be disqualification. f. Race Numbers. Participants shall plainly display their race numbers at all times, and shall maintain the race number in an unaltered, unobstructed and readable state at the start and finish gates, in the transition areas, and on the course.

Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty. g. Unfair Advantage. No participant shall use his body, head, arms, or legs to gain an unfair advantage, or to push, pull, hold, strike, or force through one or more participants. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty. h. Abandoned Equipment. No participant shall leave any equipment or personal gear on the race course. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty. i. Unauthorized Accessories. No participant shall, at any time during the event, use or wear a hard cast, headset, radio, personal audio device, or any other item deemed dangerous by the Head Referee. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty. j. Glass Containers. No participant shall utilize any glass bottles or glass containers at any time during the event. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty, unless the Head Referee determines that such conduct constituted endangerment under section 3.4(l), in which case the penalty shall be disqualification. k. Unauthorized Equipment. No participant shall use any equipment which the Head Referee determines to be improper, including but not limited to equipment which might provide an unfair advantage or endanger other participants. Unless otherwise provided for in these Rules, any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty. l. Endangerment. No participant shall commit any dangerous act which could cause injury to any participant. Any violation of this Section shall result in disqualification. m. Wave Starts. When the beginning of any event is commenced by starting designated “waves� or groups of participants at different times, all participants shall start in and with the proper wave or group. Any participant who violates this section by starting in an improper and earlier wave or group shall be disqualified. Any participant who starts in an open or elite wave in an event with age group waves shall be ineligible for age group awards and USAT national rankings. n. Indecent Exposure. Public nudity at any time during the event is prohibited. Any violation of this Section shall result in a variable time penalty.

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ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

3.5 Unregistered Participants. a. Any person who participates in any portion of a sanctioned event without first properly registering and paying any required registration fee shall be suspended or barred from membership in USA Triathlon and barred from participation in any sanctioned event for a period of up to one year. b. Any person who in any way assists another athlete to violate Section 3.5a by providing or selling a race number to that athlete shall be suspended or barred from membership in USA Triathlon and barred from participation in any sanctioned event for a period of up to one year.

Any second violation of this Section shall result in a lifetime suspension or ban from membership in USA Triathlon.

3.6 Penalties and Prohibited Conduct. Penalties, including disqualification and suspension, may be imposed upon race participants and/or members of USA Triathlon who violate any of these Competitive Rules or who solicit, encourage, or assist a violation of these Rules. Except as otherwise provided in these Rules, the specific penalty to be imposed in any given case shall depend on the nature and severity of the violation as determined by the Head Referee or USA Triathlon.

The following penalties may be imposed for a violation of these Rules: a. Assessment of a time penalty b. Disqualification c. Written reprimand or censure d. Monetary fines e. Suspension from membership in USA Triathlon (including retroactive suspension), and f. Permanent expulsion from USA Triathlon 3.7 Time Penalties. a. In General. A time penalty may be imposed for a violation of any Section of these Rules in which a time penalty is expressly authorized. In the event that a participant is assessed a time penalty, the applicable time period shall be added to that participant’s aggregate finishing time in calculating official race results. Except as otherwise provided in Section 3.7B of these rules, time penalties shall be cumulative and a participant may be assessed more than one time penalty for violations of the same rule. b. Variable Time Penalties. A “variable time penalty” as used in these Rules shall mean a time penalty that varies in accordance with the distance category of the event, as defined by the length of the cycling course. The variable time penalty for each of the distance categories shall be the following: Distance Category Youth Events Short/Intermediate – Cycle Course less than 50k Long – Cycle Course 50-100k Ultra – Cycle course greater than 100k

First Offense 1 minute 2 minutes 4 minutes 6 minutes

Second Offense Third Offense 2 minutes Disqualification 4 minutes Disqualification 8 minutes Disqualification 12 minutes Disqualification

3.7A. Time Penalties for Elites.

A “variable time penalty” as used in these Rules shall mean a time penalty that varies in accordance with the distance category of the event. The variable time penalty for each of the distance categories shall be the following: Distance Category Short/Intermediate Long Ultra

Time Penalty Cycle course less than 50k Cycle course 50-100k Cycle course greater than 100k

1 minute 2 minutes 4 minutes

a. First Violation – Time Penalty. A variable time penalty shall be imposed for the first violation of these Rules in which a time penalty is expressly authorized. b. Second Violation. For a second violation of these Rules the athlete shall be disqualified from the event and shall be required to immediately withdraw from the race and vacate the course. Any athlete who fails to withdraw from a race and continues on the course after being disqualified shall be suspended from membership in USA Triathlon and barred from participation in any USA Triathlon sanctioned event for a E N D U R A period of one year.

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ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

3.7B Assessment of Time Penalties/Conduct of Athletes.

All variable time penalties imposed under Section 3.7A shall be assessed in accordance with this Section. Except as otherwise provided herein, any violation of or failure to comply with this Section 3.7B shall result in disqualification. a. First Violation – Stop and Go System. Unless a Penalty Area System is being used pursuant to subsection (b), an athlete charged with a first violation of these Rules in which a time penalty is expressly authorized shall safely pull over to the side of the bicycle course and shall come to a complete stop, placing both feet on the ground. An athlete charged with a violation while in transition or on the run course shall come to a complete stop. The race official shall properly mark the athlete’s race numbers and the athlete shall remain stopped under the direction of the race official for a period of time equal to the applicable variable time penalty. When the official indicates that the time penalty has expired, the athlete may continue with the race. b. First Violation – Penalty Area System. Notwithstanding subsection (a), if a Penalty Area is being used in the event, an athlete charged with a first violation of these Rules in which a time penalty is expressly authorized shall (1) safely decrease speed while maintaining a straight line of movement, (2) come to a complete stop, and (3) place both feet flat on the ground while completely stopped. The race official shall properly mark the athlete’s race numbers and allow the athlete to continue with the race. After completing the bicycle course and properly securing the bicycle, the penalized athlete shall immediately report to the designated penalty box or penalty area, which shall be located within or adjacent to the transition area (the “Penalty Area”). The penalized athlete shall remain in the Penalty Area for a cumulative amount of time equal to the variable time penalty assessed against the athlete. After such time has expired as determined by race officials, the athlete may exit the Penalty Area and continue with the race. Any time served in the Penalty Area shall become incorporated into the athlete’s official time for the event. An athlete charged with a violation while in transition or on the run course shall be directed by the official to serve the penalty either in place or at the Penalty Area. c. Penalty marking. For any first violation, the race official shall apply a visible diagonal mark across the face of each race number worn by the penalized athlete. For any second violation, or for any violation which results in disqualification, the race official will apply a second visible diagonal mark across all the athlete’s race numbers resulting in an X shaped mark. d. Penalty Area Conduct. While in the Penalty Area, no athlete shall dress, undress, change uniforms, or adjust any race equipment. Running shoes may be worn into, but shall not be carried into the Penalty Area. While in the Penalty Area, no athlete shall accept any form of aid or assistance, including food, drink, or equipment, from any other person, including race officials. Any violation of this Section shall result in disqualification.

3.8 Acts Warranting Suspension.

In addition to other penalties which may be imposed at the discretion of USA Triathlon, the following acts may be grounds for suspension for a period of time designated by USA Triathlon: a. A flagrant or willful violation of the Competitive Rules; b. Gross or continued unsportsmanlike conduct; c. Physical violence directed toward a race official, participant, volunteer, spectator, or other person; d. Any fraudulent act, such as falsifying name or age, filing a false affidavit or protest, or providing false information to USA Triathlon, the Board of Hearings and Appeals, or race officials; e. Intentionally participating in an event despite failure to register; f. Repetitive or recurring violations of the Competitive Rules; g. Failure to notify a race official after withdrawing from a race; h. Violation of the Medical Control Rules as set forth in Article VIII; i. Refusal to abide by the final determination by USA Triathlon of any matter relating to these Rules or the sport of triathlon; and j. Any act which disgraces or brings discredit to the sport of triathlon.

3.9 Effect of Suspension.

Any person suspended from membership in USA Triathlon shall be ineligible to participate in any USA Triathlon sanctioned event and shall be disqualified from any USA Triathlon sanctioned event during the suspension period and until such time as that person has applied for and received written notice of reinstatement from USA Triathlon.

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ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

3.10 Reinstatement.

Any person who has been suspended must apply in writing to USA Triathlon for reinstatement after or immediately preceding expiration of the suspension period.

3.11 Notice of Disciplinary Actions.

Any person reprimanded, censured, suspended, or expelled from USA Triathlon shall be entitled to receive reasonable notice of such disciplinary action.

3.12 Acts of Agents.

The conduct of any agent acting with apparent authority on behalf of a participant shall constitute grounds for penalizing such participant if such agent’s conduct violates any of these Rules.

Clydesdale / Athena Athletes Sprint, Olympic, Half, & Full distances within the HITS Triathlon Series are open to Athletes wishing to compete in the Clydesdale/Athena Category. There will be four categories with the same start and cutoff times: • Clydesdale (Men 220lbs+): 39 and under, 40 and above • Athena (Women 165lbs+): 39 and under, 40 and above Military Athletes All active and retired military personnel receive 15% off registration for all HITS Triathlon Series events. There will be two categories (male and female) with the same start and cutoff times.

Physically Challenged Athletes All distances within the HITS Triathlon Series are open to Physically Challenged Athletes. Categories will be co-ed and scored the same with the same start and cutoff times, as well as the same awards.

Divisions Divisions for the HITS Triathlon Series will be based on five year age groups for both male and female athletes starting at age 17 and under and continuing until 85+. In addition to the five year age group scoring for the HITS Championship, each of the events within the HITS Triathlon Series will follow USAT age group breakouts for sanctioned rankings.

USAT Athlete Excess Medical Policy The athlete excess medical coverage protects each participant for the day of the event at USAT sanctioned races, camps and clinics. When athletes purchase a USAT annual license or one day permit, a portion of those fees cover the cost to provide them with excess medical insurance. This coverage only extends to their participation in an USA Triathlon sanctioned event and is only available after the injured party has filed with any primary insurance policies. A deductible does apply for this excess coverage.

If an athlete is injured while participating in a USA Triathlon sanctioned event the following steps must be followed: • Athletes must file with their primary healthcare provider (i.e. United Healthcare, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Aetna, traveler’s insurance, etc.).

• Athlete completes a medical claim form.

• For serious incidents or for athletes requesting coverage, either the race director or USAT can provide them with a medical claim form. The medical claim form along with all explanation of benefit documents should be sent directly from the athlete to the insurance company as indicated on the claim form. Please email Sanction@UsaTriathlon.org for a copy of the form.

• Athletes will pay a deductible. All claimants will pay anywhere from $250 USD (two-hundred and fifty U.S. dollars) to $1,000 USD (one thousand U.S. dollars) out of pocket and possibly more for uncovered expenses.

Be advised that coverage may not apply to each and every claim. Additionally, coverage only extends to participants that have purchased an USA Triathlon annual license or one-day permit and were injured through participation in an USA Triathlon sanctioned event. Please email questions to Sanction@UsaTriathlon.org.

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ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

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E T LE H T S A D S R T I H 5 AWA 1 R 0 2 EA Y E H T F O HITS Triathlon Series looks forward to meeting national and international triathletes during the 2015 season as well as welcoming new athletes to the sport. To celebrate all HITS triathletes, registration is open for the first 500 athletes in each distance for the HITS Championship in Palm Springs, California, December 5-6, 2015.

All others will have to qualify.

Focused on the desires of triathlon veterans as well as first timers, each distance of every HITS Triathlon Series event will offer opportunities to qualify for HITS Triathlon Series Athlete of the Year Awards, which will be awarded at the HITS Championship in Palm Springs. To qualify for a HITS Triathlon Series Athlete of the Year Award, an athlete must earn points in their specific gender and age group as follows: Categories: Five Year Age Groups* (M/F) Example: F20-24, M45-49, F60-64 Top three overall will be awarded: 1st Place = 20 points 2nd Place = 15 points 3rd Place = 12 points Top three in each age group will be awarded: 1st Place = 9 points 2nd Place = 8 points

3rd Place = 7 points

All finishers = 1 point

*All age groups will be five-year groupings as of December 31 of the current year.

Points will be calculated after each event during the 2015 schedule and posted online the week following the conclusion of the race.

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ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015

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ATHLETE GUIDE | Naples, FL - Jan. 10-11, 2015