Necessary equipment when competing in aquathlon
On October 29, the DNSE Aquaman Vietnam biathlon tournament returned in Phan Thiet City. Taking place both in the sea and on shore, athletes need to carefully prepare costumes and competition equipment depending on their goals. John Levison - a triathlon athlete with more than 30 years of competition and a veteran writer for Tri247, provides advice on clothing and outfit selection criteria for athletes participating in Aquathlon.
John Levison's number one priority is the trisuit. This is the familiar competition outfit of triathletes. Trisuite comes in two popular forms: with arms and with three holes, and can be used for both swimming and running. For tournaments in the central coastal region like Phan Thiet, which often have high temperatures, a trisuit with sleeves is a suitable choice because it helps athletes avoid direct sunlight impact on the skin. However, athletes can still use a three-hole trisuit according to personal preference.
When choosing a trisuit, athletes should wear it and try it out for a few minutes to evaluate the comfort and fit. Trisuits are usually tight to the body but not too tight. If wearing it makes it difficult to breathe in the chest, the athlete needs to go up a size. Buyers also need to check the comfort level when hitting the hands and the elasticity at the hips.
For female athletes, many will feel uncomfortable wearing swimsuits while running. Experts recommend having a pair of running shorts ready at the transition area to wear over your swimsuit. Wearing extra pants takes more time so it is suitable for active athletes whose achievements are not too important.
For male athletes, the competition outfit is simpler. They can wear a trisuit or just swim trunks and go shirtless. When arriving at the transition area, athletes competing for achievements often only wear Bib and shoes and then begin the run. Active athletes who have more time can change into running-specific clothing.
In addition to clothes, Aquathlon participants also need many other equipment. First is the swimming cap. At Aquaman Vietnam, the organizers provide swimming caps in race-kit bags with many outstanding colors divided by distance. If the water is too cold, athletes can bring their own hats, then wear a hat from the organizers.
Goggles are an optional but necessary accessory for better visibility when swimming in the sea. Unlike lake swimming, when competing at sea, participants should choose glasses with a wide viewing angle to see the entire swimming route. Today's swimming goggles are very diverse and colorful, meeting all personal needs and preferences. Sunscreen is also necessary equipment for races at sea. The end of October has passed the peak of heat in Phan Thiet, but prolonged exposure to the sun is still harmful to the skin. Athletes can apply sunscreen after the swimming competition.
In addition to the above equipment, John Levison advised participants to prepare additional sunglasses and energy bars.
DNSE Aquaman Vietnam includes three distances: Aquaman (swim 2km, run 21km), Half Aqua (swim 1km, run 10km) and Sprint Aqua (swim 500m, run 5km). The official swimming and running track is located within the campus of NovaWorld Phan Thiet resort and entertainment urban area. This is an area with a long, clear coastline with few big waves. In addition, complete infrastructure, flat racetrack and many amenities also help NovaWorld Phan Thiet become an ideal location to organize a biathlon sports tournament.
The tournament is currently open for registration at all distances. Athletes can register to participate here.
