How many times have you heard post race complaints from your fellow triathletes who went off course, were misdirected or didn't know that it was a two-loop course and stopped prematurely? These days, most race directors are pretty savvy and have Web sites with pertinent information, including course maps and descriptions. The question is, how many of you have taken the time to actually study the course beforehand and visualize the route? It's your responsibility to be prepared in case you get to a spot where there are no marshals, signage, or the course gets just plain confusing. Knowing the course can save you a lot of frustration and angst, and help you to be more prepared physically and mentally for the event.

Below are some key triathlons this summer and course tips from those in the know, including event organizers and triathletes who have mastered these particular courses.

July 17
Muncie Endurathon
(www.muncieendurathon.com)
Distance: Half Ironman
*2004 USA Triathlon Elite/Pro Long Distance Triathlon National Championship
Swim: Beach start. There are three turns, each one right-handed so you will always keep the buoys on your right. After the last turn, you will be swimming into the sun, so goggles with tinted lenses might help you site the finish.
Bike: The 2004 course will be identical to the 2003 course. Near the beginning is a small segment on the Cardinal Greenway bike trail which is narrow, so you'll need to exercise caution. Basically, the course is flat and fast with long straight roads and a few rolling hills.
Run: Gently rolling out and back course with very little shade. Expect hot and humid conditions, and look for aid stations every mile with water, sport drink and cold towels.
Tips from the top: An extremely well run and well marshalled event. Very hot and humid in the sun, so prepare for the run by pumping the fluids on the bike.

August 8
Lake Zurich Triathlon
(www.lzarea.org/lztri)
Distance: International
*Qualifying event for USAT National Championships Swim: Route heads into the sun, so tinted goggles will help. Lake Zurich is one of the cleanest lakes in the state, but expect to brush up against some weeds.
Bike: A two-loop course with two sharp turns coming off Rand Road where you should be aware of loose gravel. Look for Rt. 12 to continue on for the second loop.
Run: On residential streets that are not closed to traffic, so be careful.
Tips from the top: Watch out for those weeds on the swim. Challenging bike course, but fast if you know how to work your gears, and a downhill stretch right out of the transition can give you a jump start on the run.
Official's word: Don't be alarmed by the weeds--they're harmless.

August 15
Pleasant Prairie Triathlon
(www.pleasantprairietriathlon.com)
Distance: International and Sprint
Swim: A tight start on a small stretch of beach. The swim is calm, warm, non-swimmer friendly, and one of the cleanest swimming venues in the area.
Bike: The route is a mix of concrete and asphalt roads through the countryside. A minimum of turns and long straightaways make for a fast course. Roads are not closed, so keep an eye out for the occasional car.
Run: Flat out and back course that winds around Lake Andrea with minimal sun-protection.
Tips from the top: The run doubles back on itself, so make sure you know where the turn-around is for your particular distance.
Official's word: With both international and sprint distances following similar courses, it's important to know your particular route. Drive part or all of the course the day before and don't be afraid to ask questions.

August 29
Accenture Chicago Triathlon
(www.chicagotriathlon.com)
Distance: International and Sprint
Swim: Deep water start in Monroe Harbor. The start line for all races is 925 yards south of the Chicago Yacht Club and the finish line for all races is 100 yards south of the Chicago Yacht Club.
Bike: Start in a low gear as you head up the ramp to northbound Lake Shore Drive. The course heads north using the inner two lanes and turns around at Foster, then heads south using the inner two lanes. International distance repeats this loop.
Run: Flat course on sidewalk and paved lakefront path. Very little shade.
Tips from the top: Along with being the world's largest triathlon, it's also the world's most crowded. Be honest with your ability, especially in the swim, and position yourself accordingly. Make sure you know where you're at in the transition area and don't be afraid to be vocal when passing on the ride and run--but try not to yell.
Official's word: Be ready for the half mile stretch between the swim exit and the first transition.

September 11
Lake Geneva Triathlon
(www.lakegenevasports.com)
Distance: Half Ironman, International, Sprint and Super Sprint
Swim: Starts on Fontana Beach and finishes heading into the sun. The projected water temperature is 65-70 degrees--wetsuits are recommended.
Bike: Rural course with a number of hills and railroad track crossings. Technical support teams will travel the course.
Run: Be ready to tackle the hills: one at the half-mile point and another around four miles. The Half Ironman course completes two loops and there's plenty of shade from the sun.
Tips from the top: The swim course tends to vary from year to year, so don't bother comparing times. Bike course is hilly and long and can be dangerous if raining.
Official's word: The run course is designed so all participants, from Super Sprint to Half Ironman, get to climb "Frank's Killer Hill" at the midpoint.

September 12
Ironman Wisconsin (www.ironmanwisconsin.com)
Distance: Ironman
Swim: Mass water start of up to 1,800 athletes, so expect contact with other swimmers. Two-loop course.
Bike: Very challenging and technical two-loop course. Lots of short but steep hills. A detailed knowledge of the course can save you 10 minutes and expect wind direction changes.
Run: Mostly flat double-loop course with one significant hill midway through (approx. 400 meter climb).
Tips from the top: Keeping the swimmers on your left and the shore on your right around the first buoy can keep you out of traffic on the swim. It is highly recommended to ride or drive the bike course prior to the race to scout out the hills and flats.
Official's word: Weather is typically a high of 71 degrees and a low of 48. Prepare accordingly.

Special thanks for tips from top expienced triathletes, Tom Estka, Cathy Gries, Mark Hauser, Kara Hughes, Robin Karlov and Bob Richards.