The University of Texas at Austin Triathlon Club aims to foster team spirit, a competitive attitude, and a healthy lifestyle for all its members. Our members range in experience from absolute beginners to seasoned veterans and all athletes are welcome. The only requirement for membership is UT Austin affiliation -- students, faculty, and staff are all eligible.

I'm very slow and out of shape. Can I still join?

All age, skill and equipment levels are welcome! Each year we have members complete their first multisport event of any kind, and members who place or win local races. We have active members aged 18 to "over forty." We have guys who race on their mountain bike and gals who race on multi-thousand dollar bikes. As long as you have UT affiliation, c'mon by.

Most of our training sessions are done in conjunction with other UT or Austin groups, so there will likely be someone as fast or slow as you.

As long as you can run a mile, swim a couple laps without sinking, and pedal a bike, we can help you train for your first triathlon. In fact, even if you can't, come to a meeting and we'll put you in touch with classes that will get you to that point.

I'm very fast and only compete to win. Can I still join?

So fast, they call you Mr. Speed? So fast, you can turn off the light switch in your bedroom, and be in bed before the room is dark?

No, really -- the club makes it easy to move to the next level of fitness and competition. We have scheduled workouts five days a week, and connections with other groups, so you should be able to find a workout partner no matter what your schedule. Many members of the club came to triathlon from other sports and are able to give high-quality competition and advice in those areas.

Also, professional personal trainer Allan Besselink gives bi-weekly seminars on training and performance, and has made himself available to offer advice and answer questions. Allan has coached athletes of all skill levels, from first-time marathoners and ultrarunners to experienced age group Ironman distance triathletes, including two Ironman Hawaii qualifiers in the past two years.

What happens at the meetings?

At our meetings we briefly discuss current business and upcoming races. Then professional trainer Allan Besselink gives a lecture on training and performance, and answers our questions. Meetings last just over an hour.

You guys have a professional coach? How cool is that!

Yeah! Allan rules. We're very grateful to him for donating his valuable expertise and time.

Dangit! I have class during the regular team meetings! What now?

Don't worry about it! We summarize and publish the meeting minutes and training notes. Making regular workouts is the most important thing for triathlon preparation, and you can come to as many or as few as fit your schedule and training regimen. We also hold occasional happy hours (posted to the mailing list) so that we know what everyone looks like when fully clothed.

Are there dues? What for?

Dues are $10/year ($20 with T-shirt). Dues provide the club with the money necessary to purchase team race singlets and t-shirts, and to promote the club. Whatever we don't use goes to an end-of-year party or is returned to the club members.

How do I join?

First, you should sign up on the email list. (follow link for instructions). This is how club members keep in touch with each other and send out notices for group rides, runs, swimming, and race-related info. Also come to a meeting or workout and introduce yourself. They're open attendance and very casual.

If you'd like to formally join, see the club treasurer to pay your dues and email the webmaster to be added to the roster.

What stuff do I need?

If you have good running shoes, a bike of any kind, and a helmet you are ready to train. You may want goggles for swimming. Our complete list of triathlon equipment tells what is necessary and what is optional for a race.

How can I learn more about the club?

If you have other questions about the club go to our contact page and email one of our officers.

How can I learn more about Triathlons in general?

See our links page for what the rest of the world has to say.