TriJuniors FAQ’s
Junior triathlon teams are one the biggest aspects of the growing sport, and is a new concept to many. These FAQ's should help explain more about our program.
What is TriJuniors?
TriJuniors is committed to promoting and developing the sport of triathlon among teenagers, (13-19), in a team atmosphere, from beginner to elite ability levels.
Athletes in the TriJuniors program will build skills and learn goal setting and pursuing goals. With hard work and fun, young triathletes will build a healthy lifestyle from their experiences in this positive environment for personal growth both in the sport, and in life.
TriJuniors will also support certain athletes displaying a desire and potential ability to compete at the highest level of the sport for their age, with a more focused and determined training regimen and development protocol toward ITU draft-legal triathlon
What age does my child have to be to participate?
TriJuniors is focused on developing athletes in the Youth Elite, (13-15), and Junior Elite, (16-19), age groups. The age of the athlete on December 31st of the year is the defining age for these levels.
Who is the head coach?
Jim Vance is the head coach of the team. Jim has been an elite triathlete, and is a level 2 USA Triathlon Certified Coach, and an Elite Coach for TrainingBible Coaching. Jim is also a two-time amateur world champion in triathlon, for XTERRA and ITU. He has also seen success at the Ironman level, with multiple top 8 finishes, including 3rd at Ironman Florida in 2006, in a time of 8:37:09. Jim is a former school teacher, who holds a BS in physical education, and using his background in teaching to be a great coach.
How long is the TriJuniors season? What is their race schedule?
The TriJuniors season is year round, with practices offered weekly. The race schedule includes the following, but you can also check our Practice and Race Calendar.
- TCSD Monthly Club Races
- TCSD Monthly Aquathlons
- Junior Elite/Youth Elite Cups
- USAT Junior National Championships
- Local Sprint Races
*Other races may be added, depending on experience and ability level of kids on the team.
How often do they practice? What time are the practices held?
There are a minimum of 2 practice sessions held during the week, but sometimes as many as 6 sessions. On the weekends, athletes can expect to have practice both Saturday and Sunday, unless there is a race event. Weekday practice sessions will be held in the afternoons, while weekend sessions will be held in the AM. Our Practice and Race Calendarlists all the details.
Where do they conduct their training sessions?
The locations vary, but in general the team practices both in north and central San Diego County. The details for locations and timing of the sessions can be found in our Practice and Race Calendar. General sites include Ventura Cove, Cathedral Catholic High School, Carlsbad, and University City High School.
What if my child can not attend some of the sessions?
Though attendance will be highly encouraged, it is not mandatory. Athletes will be given a TrainingPeaks.com account, which will have all their training listed, and act as their training log and communication tool with Coach Vance. They will be able to upload heart rate information, power data, GPS data from runs, rides, etc. This account will belong to them, and they are free to use for many years.
If they can’t attend a practice session, they will be expected to complete the training on their own, which will be detailed in TrainingPeaks.
How much does it cost to have my child participate?
The monthly is membership is $199/month, (based on auto-payment), or $215/month if month to month. This will cover all the coaching costs, practice sessions offered, association memberships, as well as some apparel and other items based on availability. Costs for race registration and other items are not included in this cost. However, every attempt will be made to help members of the team receive discounted rates for races, and other needs. There is no long term contract or commitment.
What sorts of equipment does my child need to participate? What can TriJuniors provide, if my child doesn’t have a bike, or other needs?
TriJuniors can offer most athletes coming into the program a bike, helmet and wetsuit, if they need it. Athletes in the program will need a road bike, helmet, wetsuit, and running shoes, at a minimum. Training apparel, such as bike shorts, swim suits, and other items are highly recommended.
Will sponsors be providing anything for my kids?
Sponsorships items vary greatly, and are based on timing, as well as the number of kids on the team. Sponsorship for 10 kids on the team is much easier to obtain than for 40 kids. However, any and all sponsorships will be objectively and fairly distributed to the team.
Where do I register my child for the team?
Your child can register your child at our membership page, at this link
What can I do to help the program? Where can I find out more information?
There are so many ways you can help this program, but the biggest and easiest way to help us is to tell people about us! Let them know about our program, and how they can get their children involved in the sport!
You can share about us via:
If you’d like more information, want to volunteer to be involved with our team as a coach, or are interested in sponsoring the team, or some other capacity, please contact Jim Vance at CoachJimVance@gmail.com