triathlon Archives

Revealing the 2019 Jack’s Generic Tri Participant Bibs

July 12, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Get the first look at this year’s JGT bibs designed especially with you in mind!

Get ready to get generic this August 25th and get ready to show off your personalized bib! Customizations are available until July 31st, so don’t wait any longer, and sign up today!

First-look at the super sleek 2019 JGT participant bibs!

We can’t wait to meet you all on race morning at the start line! In the meantime, keep up the hard work during your JGT training!

You Need This Essential Triathlon Equipment Checklist

June 26, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Pursue your love of triathlons the right way!

It’s never a good idea to wait until a couple of weeks or days leading up to your next tri to get all your necessary gear together. We’ve created a checklist of the essential triathlon equipment you’ll need to be a pro triathlete in no time.

Bike

Simple enough, but one of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need. You can’t complete a triathlon without a bike. From tri bikes and road bikes to mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, and cruisers, we’ve seen just about everything on the JGT course. Whatever kind of bike you have will be just fine for your next tri. Whether you’re currently in the market for one or are looking to improve your current ride, here are some suggestions for your perfect ride.

Pro tip: You can always rent bikes to test it out before you buy.

Helmet

Arguably the most important piece of equipment you will need for a triathlon. A safe tri is a fun tri, so it’s important to make sure you have a helmet that protects you. The fit of your helmet is crucial in the case of an accident. It is also a good idea to make sure you test them out in person to ensure a correct fit before purchasing your helmet.

Running Shoes

Running shoes are a must. It takes time to figure out what will make the run portion the most enjoyable and painless for you. Everyone is different and has different needs when it comes to a running shoe, so make sure you’re choosing the perfect pair of shoes. Hopefully, by now you already have a favorite pair or have a pair on the way, and are ready to take on the JGT run course. Pro tip: It’s a good idea to wear your running shoes to the race, to avoid forgetting them along with all your other essential tri gear.

Swim Goggles

Of course, you need goggles for the swim portion. Open water swimming tends to frighten people, so it will make you feel better to be able to see while completing the swim to see the buoys. Also, depending on the weather race day, choose goggles with the appropriate amount of tint to avoid hindering yourself during the swim portion.

Swim Cap

Swim caps are great for eliminating drag and increasing your speed in the water. JGT provides our participants with a bright colored swim cap specific to your age group to keep the groups together and help with the time trial swim start. Per USAT rules, swim caps are required for safety purposes to be able to identify swimmers in the water.

Pro tip: Wear two swim caps on race day with your goggles in between the two. It will prevent any sort of slipping your goggles may encounter.

Swimsuit or Tri Suit

A standard swimsuit can come in a one-piece or two-piece. You will need to come prepared with a pair of cycling shorts after you complete the swim if you opt for the swimsuit. Then there is a tri suit. A tri suit can also be in one or two pieces, but the bottoms resemble cycling shorts. The key difference here from a wetsuit is the pad included for cycling is not nearly as thick. Find what you’re most comfortable in to be ready for your next triathlon. Lastly, if you plan on doing your training in a pool, the chlorine can damage your suit. It’s always a good idea to have one you train in, and one designated for race day.

We advise shopping around before you make your purchase regarding these different pieces of essential triathlon equipment. Everyone has their preferences, so take some time to guarantee you get the equipment best for you and your body.

Oskar Blues Austin Returns to Jack’s Generic Tri Beer Garden

June 24, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

JGT welcomes back Oskar Blues Austin to the JGT finish line festival

High Five Events announces Oskar Blues Austin will return as the Official Beer Sponsor of the 17th annual Jack’s Generic Triathlon. Triathletes (21+) will celebrate with Oskar Blues’ Austin-brewed beers at the finish line festival’s beer garden. Jack’s Generic Tri will take place on Sunday, August 25th, at Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park in Austin. Oskar Blues Austin returns to sponsor the Jack's Generic Tri beer garden!

“Oskar Blues isn’t just a beer brand, it’s a culture, a vibe and a community of folks kicking butt together, the beer just brings all of that together,” said Leilani Howard, Marketing Manager Oskar Blues Brewery Austin. “We are stoked to be part of Jack’s Generic Tri to celebrate with the triathletes, their families, and friends.”

Oskar Blues Austin

Oskar Blues Brewery Austin will offer finishers and spectators Austin-brewed craft beers on race day. Jack’s Generic Tri’s beer garden will provide triathletes and their friends and family a place to gather. They can relax and enjoy select Oskar Blues’ craft brews post-race. Available beers will include Austin-brewed voluminously hopped Dale’s Pale Ale, refreshing Mama’s Little Yella Pils, and sessionable Pinner Throwback IPA.

“Triathletes love crossing the JGT finish line and celebrating their accomplishments with friends and family and an ice-cold Oskar Blues beer,” said Jack Murray, co-owner of High Five Events. “We’re excited to have Oskar Blues and their crew join us for a generic time on August 25th!”

Jack’s Generic Triathlon will begin at 7:30 a.m. It will feature a 600m swim, 11.2-mile bike ride, and a 5K. The aquabike will consist of a 600m swim and 11.2-mile bike ride. Relay teams of two or three can complete all three disciplines. Jack’s Generic Tri was created 17 years ago with the participant in mind and is well-known as one of the more participant-friendly triathlons. Registration is open for Jack’s Generic Triathlon. Volunteer positions are available as well.

Each participant receives a commemorative 17th Anniversary shirt, sunglasses, and water bottle. They will also receive a swim cap, finisher’s medal, post-race food and beer, and the signature swag toss. Professional timing, a wonderful volunteer crew, hundreds of supportive spectators, and an electric finish line festival will ensure the 17th Anniversary of Jack’s Generic Triathlon is one to remember.

Free Triathlon Training Plan Created Specifically for Jack’s Generic

June 13, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Cross your first triathlon finish line or get your PR with a custom triathlon training plan designed by a pro

Is Jack’s Generic Triathlon on your calendar or your radar? Are you ready to swim, bike, and run and then party at the finish line? Then follow this free triathlon training plan to get to the start line on August 25th! Look no further than the 3-month training plan below.

This training plan was created by professional triathlete and coach Paul “Barny” Matthews just for you. Matthews has won or placed at numerous IRONMANs and 70.3s. He broke onto the triathlon scene at the 2014 IRONMAN Asia Pacific Championship in Melbourne. The native Australian finished 2nd in his home country with a time of 8:02:14. He has also won some local races, including Rookie Triathlon and yours truly, Jack’s Generic Triathlon.

Paul "Barny" Mathews finish image at Melbourne Ironman triathlon.

Barny crosses the 2014 IRONMAN Asia Pacific Championship in Melbourne finish line in second place. Credit – Jay Prasuhn

This downloadable training plan is geared for triathletes of all levels, from first-timers to season veterans. You can further customize it yourself by cutting certain workouts in half (first-timers), adding more time (veterans), or adjusting the specific workouts and their days to fit your busy life.

After you download Barny’s free triathlon training plan, click on the day’s workout to learn about the workout’s description.

Pro tip: when you have a rest day, take it!

If you want to take your training to the next level, then contact Matthews today. Make sure you ask for his special JGT coaching rate! Follow him on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to see where he’s training and join him for a workout.

Click here or the calendar below to download the PDF!

We look forward to seeing you at Jack’s Generic Tri! We’ll be celebrating 17 years in 2019 and can’t wait to have you experience the fun of triathlon!

Your Step-by-Step Guide to a Clean Bike

June 10, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Our guide to a clean bike will have your ride look good as new

Everybody knows that when you go for a ride, your bike is bound to get dirty. Whether it’s grease from your indoor trainer or mud and dirt from your ride on the trails, we know how hard it can be to keep your set of wheels clean with all the craziness of training season. Prolong the life of your bike by giving it the TLC it needs with our 7-step guide to a clean bike. Pro tip: download the PDF below to print out our guide to a clean bike!

Follow these steps

Put a little degreaser on the chain. Not too much, a little goes a long way. Let it sit on the chain for about a minute or two.
Give the chain a light scrubbing and rinse it off with the hose/sprayer.
Prepare the Simple Green solution. We recommend a 3:1 ratio of water to Simple Green.
Take your big brush along with the solution and wash all the major components of the bike (i.e. frame, fork, wheels, cranks, and derailleurs). Save your smaller brushes for tighter areas. To avoid missing any spots, start at the back and make your way to the front of the bike.
Spray your bike down with water completely. Wash your tires while you’re at it. It will give you a chance to inspect for any damages your tires may have.
Let it dry. Either air-dry outside or hand-dry it with a towel.
Once completely dry, you can then lube the chain so it’s ready to go on your next ride.

Go the extra mile and wash the bar tape, saddle, and tires. These parts tend to get forgotten and they can get pretty gross if they stay dirty.

Consistency is key. Using our guide to a clean bike will ultimately improve the way your bike handles, as well as extending the life of your bike. Remember: happy bike = happy life.

By: James Balentine, owner of City Limit Cycles, an Austin, Texas-based mobile bicycle repair company that comes to you. Balentine began working with bikes in 1990 when he was 12. He began racing mountain bikes in 1991 and BMX in 1992, winning 12 national championships before turning pro in 1999. He has worked with USA Triathlon as a mechanic for Team USA since 2004. Since 2013, Balentine has worked with the US Paratriathlon team and is their sole mechanic.

Meet your 2019 Jack’s Generic Tri Ambassadors

June 3, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Jack’s Generic Tri Ambassadors are triathletes just like you and they’re here to help

If you have a question about event details or are looking for advice from a JGT veteran, your Jack’s Generic Tri Ambassadors have the answer. Whether you connect on social media or within the community, you can be sure that there is always an Ambassador ready to chat with you. Take a few minutes and get to know these folks.

Vicki Ford – JGT Ambassador

Vicki Ford

Ford is an adventurer, explorer, student, dog lover, athlete, and yoga instructor. Her first athletic love, what she comes back to year-after-year, is triathlon. “I really want to show the next generation what this is all about. How much fun you can have at an ungodly early hour of the morning, racing your heart out, and cheering on all the other athletes and volunteers.” Connect with her on Facebook.

Jane Ireland

I’ve done a lot of triathlons, including JGT a few times. I’m a member of several local teams/clubs (Beef Team, Team Radioactive, and Austin Triathlon Club) and I know a lot of triathletes. I enjoy triathlons and would like to get others interested in trying a tri. Connect with her on Facebook.

Heidi Maldonado – JGT Ambassador

Heidi Maldonado

I was hooked from my very first super sprint triathlon at the 2013 CapTex Tri. I’ve raced all distances, from sprint through IRONMAN, and completed the Texas Tri Series almost every year since. I love mentoring newer athletes and volunteering with High Five Events every chance I get. They’re wonderful people and put on the best-run events. Connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Aaron Shapley

I’ve done Rookie Tri three times and JGT twice. Although I’m out there to compete against some of the best local triathletes, these races offer some of the best environments for those new to the sport. In addition, my background as an NCAA Division I swimmer gives me the opportunity to provide some education and strategies in approaching the discipline (swim) that keeps most people away from the sport.

Troy McHenry – JGT Ambassador

L. Troy McHenry

Born and raised in Carson, California. After graduating college I moved to Austin, Texas, where I met my beautiful wife. We have one daughter. I have participated in two triathlons over the last three years, but have gravitated to doing more cycling events. I want to give back to the tri community by helping others reach their goals and felt becoming an ambassador was a great way to get started. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram.

Alvis Prince

If you swim, bike, or run in the ATX I want to know you. Lately, you can find me biking a couple of days a week around the hills by Decker Lake (JGT’s bike course), swimming at Quarry Lake, or enjoying a run on Town Lake. Where do you train and how can we help you get better or faster? Whatever you’re working on, let’s do it together. Follow him on Twitter and Instagram.

Amy Scarborough – JGT Ambassador

Amy Scarborough

JGT has been there to create a community as well as a challenge for me in racing. I want to spread the word about the mission and the community JGT has created. It’s perfect for people looking to do their first race (but don’t know where to start) or those wanting to get back into racing. Triathlon is a way of life for me. Connect with her on Instagram.

Thanks to our 2019 Jack’s Generic Tri Ambassadors for spreading the love of triathlon with others and helping grow our JGT family.

Transition Details – What You Should Know for a Smooth Race Day

April 25, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Knowing transition details will make for a smooth race day

The best way to ensure a successful and generic Jack’s Generic Tri is to be prepared. Here are some transition details that will help guarantee a smooth experience the morning of August 25th. Jack’s Generic Tri is located at Walter E Long Park in the beautiful city of Austin, Texas. Transition opens bright and early at 5:30 a.m. and closes at 7:00. Don’t forget to grab your goggles and head to the water before the race begins at 7:30.

Body marking

Volunteers will body mark the participant before they enter transition. Body markings are written in marker on arms and legs to identify the participant with their bib number and age. Arms and quads get marked with the participant’s race number and the right calve gets the age of the participant. Relays get an “R” for relay in place of age.

Triathletes should have bib information and age (age on Dec. 31st of race year) ready for the volunteer to make the process go faster for everyone.

Bib Numbers

Have bib numbers and wristband ready. Put the bike sticker on the seat post of your bike before you get to transition on race morning. Put the helmet sticker number on the front of your helmet. You will also need to wear your wristband in order to get into transition.

Racks

Transition will have racks assigned to each age group. It is open racking within your age group. You must be body marked and wearing your athlete wristband before you enter transition. Only participants are allowed in. Friends and family (including children) must wait outside of transition.

City Limit Cycles will be available outside of transition for any last-minute needs. They’ll have bike pumps for airing up your tires. Once transition closes, you will not be allowed back in. Make sure and arrive early.

Pro tip: Remember where your bike is by keeping track of which rack your bike belongs on. This will be predetermined according to age. (?)

There will be designated racks for the participant to put their bike on. It is very beneficial to become familiar with the flow of transition. This means after the swim, should know where they will be entering transition and where they will be heading out on the bike. After the bike, they should know where they will exit for the run.

Relay corral

Relay team members will rack together. Team members will wait in the relay pen near the rack. Their team member will return their items to the rack and then meet the next team member in the pen to exchange the chip.

Bike check out

Bikes will not be allowed out of transition until the final cyclist has completed the bike course. It is expected that this will be around 11:00 a.m. Participants will be allowed back into transition after they finish, but bikes may not be removed from the racks.

Location

Know where transition is located by checking out this map on our website!

Ascension Seton Named Official Medical Provider

April 22, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

As Official Medical Provider, Ascension Seton to focus on participant well-being

High Five Events announces Ascension Seton as the Official Medical Provider of the 17th annual Jack’s Generic Triathlon. Ascension Seton and their experienced team will have an on-course presence throughout the event. They will have a tent near the finish line. Jack’s Generic Tri will take place on Sunday, August 25th, at Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park in Austin.

“Ascension Seton is proud to support Jack’s Generic Triathlon as the Official Medical Provider,” said Adam Bauman, vice president, orthopedics & sports performance, Ascension Seton. “We are excited to expand our partnership to include not only our running community, but also our cyclists and swimmers in this great race.”

As the Official Medical Provider, Ascension Seton doctors and nurses will work together with Travis County EMS to focus on participant’s well-being. Ascension Seton is part of the largest nonprofit health system in the U.S. and the world’s largest Catholic health system. They’ve expanded their Austin footprint, partnering with the Austin Marathon and Austin Bold FC.

“One of Jack’s Generic Tri’s main focuses is the participant, from their overall experience to their safety,” said Jack Murray, co-owner of High Five Events. “Our growing partnership with Ascension Seton ensures the well-being of our participants continues to be the highest of priorities.”

17th annual Jack’s Generic Tri

Jack’s Generic Triathlon will begin at 7:30 a.m. It will feature a 600m swim, 11.2-mile bike ride, and a 5K. The aquabike will consist of a 600m swim and 11.2-mile bike ride. Relay teams of two or three can complete all three disciplines. Jack’s Generic Tri was created 17 years ago with the participant in mind and is well-known as one of the more participant-friendly triathlons. Registration is open for Jack’s Generic Triathlon. Volunteer positions are available as well.

Each participant receives a commemorative 17th Anniversary shirt, water bottle, and swim cap. They will earn a finisher’s medal, post-race food and beer, and the signature swag toss. Professional timing, a wonderful volunteer crew, hundreds of supportive spectators, and an electric finish line festival will ensure the 17th Anniversary of Jack’s Generic Triathlon is one to remember.

Divisions at Jack’s Generic Triathlon Explained

April 2, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Breakdown of different divisions offered at Jack’s Generic Tri

Jack’s Generic Triathlon consists of a 600m swim, 11.2-mile bike ride, and 5K run. Understand the different divisions offered so you participate against athletes like yourself! Every participant, regardless of their division, will receive the same sweet perks and have access to the finish line festival.

Open

Participants are encouraged to enter the open wave if they expect to finish in the top 50. This wave will begin first. Participants in the open wave will not be eligible for age group awards or USAT rankings. The open division exists so that participants who are interested in competing head-to-head, regardless of age, may do so. This allows the age group waves to be more friendly. Awards are given to top 3 male and female for the Open Division.

Athena/Clydesdale

Introduced by High Five Events in 2018, the inclusion of these two divisions introduced triathlon to new participants and created more energy and competition on race day. Participants in the Athena (165+ lbs.) or Clydesdale (220+ lbs.) Divisions are separated according to body weight instead of age group. Participants must select Athena or Clydesdale during registration. It is not required. Awards are given to top 3 female and male for the Athena/Clydesdale Divisions.

Aquabike

Take all the fun of triathlon and subtract the run, you’ve got Aquabike! Aquabikers complete the 600m swim and the 11.2-mile bike. Once they enter transition they’re done and their time stops. Participants can either cross the finish line at their own pace or they can head straight to the finish line festival to get the party started. Awards are given to top 3 male and female for the Aquabike Divisions.

Relays

Relay teams can consist of two or three members. This makes JGT two or three times the fun! Gather friends or family and make it a competition. Or challenge another department in your office. Relay team members will rack together. This means all of your items will be in the same location, as if you were completing the triathlon solo. Team members will wait in the relay pen near the rack. Their team member will return their items (swim gear or bike) to the rack and then meet the next team member in the pen to exchange the chip. Awards are given to the top 3 relay teams.

Z’Tejas to Host Jack’s Generic Tri Volunteers

April 1, 2019/in Blog /by Willliam Dyson

Official volunteer after party will take place at Z’Tejas

Volunteering for Jack’s Generic Triathlon is anything but generic. You support hundreds of triathletes who’ve spent countless hours training. This is a great way to give back to the sport you love and get a front-row seat to watching friends and family. Then, we’ll celebrate your efforts at Z’Tejas (1110 W. 6th St. – date/time TBD) for the official volunteer party! We’re getting excited right now just thinking about their scrumptious southwestern food and delicious drinks.

Grilled shrimp and guacamole sostadas from Z'Tejas, who will host the Jack's Generic Tri volunteer party.

Grilled shrimp and guacamole tostadas from Z’Tejas, who will host the Jack’s Generic Tri volunteer party.

If you’re participating on Sunday, Aug. 25th, you can volunteer before race day. Not participating in the event? Lend your time and energy to hundreds of triathletes! There are early morning shifts, opportunities during the race, and time slots during breakdown if you’re not an -early birds. Sign up for a shift during the event if you want to be right in the action where you can cheer and volunteer.

Race-day volunteers are fed and hydrated. There are snacks and cold drinks throughout the day. If you’re there in the morning you’ll get breakfast tacos and coffee! In addition to all of the above, volunteers get a sweet, custom shirt.

Don’t forget: this is event #3 of the Texas Tri Series. You’ve volunteered or participated in Rookie Triathlon and CapTex Tri. Once you complete JGT, Kerrville Triathlon is the only event left on your calendar!

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