20 Days to Race Day Checklist

20 Days to Race Day Checklist

Time is flying! Here’s our handy 20 day checklist to ensure you are ready to go on race day (and, in case you missed it, read our 30 day checklist here):

• Finalise your registration: You’ve got until the close of registration to complete your registration details. This includes all boat and skipper information; all team members registered; ultramarathon/solo swimmer links to qualifying times submitted; and consent forms for under 18 years submitted. Instructions for editing your registration form are here.
• Keep focused on your training: Our general rule of thumb is for teams to train 3x pool and 1x ocean weekly; duos 3x pool and 2x ocean weekly; and solos at least 5x pool and 1-2x long ocean swims weekly.
• Practice with your paddler: Practice together so that your paddler can get to know your swim style, stroke, and speed. Discuss which side you prefer your paddler to be on as well as any hand signals you will use. Discuss your meet up plan for the race and what to do if you can’t immediately find each other.
• Test your equipment: This applies to skippers and paddlers as much as to swimmers! Paddlers should be out in their kayaks/skis to ensure they feel comfortable. Vessel bungs and cap seals should be checked to ensure they can hold up in rough water. Whether it’s goggles or an engine, you don’t want to find out on race morning that something doesn’t work.
• Prepare for the worst (in order to prevail): For some swimmers, it is handy to list out the practical things that could go wrong on race day along with plans to overcome them. This exercise can help you recognise what additional preparations and/or supplies might be needed and reduce the “what if” jitters.
• Make your general race day plan: What time will you wake up? Who will meet you in the morning and when? Who is packing food and hydration for the boat? Who is at the start line and who is already on the boat? When and how are you getting back to the mainland after the event?
• Read the Event Rules in full.