Do you want to race in Taupo in November next year?

Have you considered your options for qualification?

Conventional wisdom would suggest you need to be prepared to go and have a top 10 or higher finish in your age group to give yourself a chance… but there are other ways to approach the qualification challenge.

So, whether you are a regular top finisher or someone who at first thought would say that they aren’t a chance at qualification here are some considerations…

Ironman Oceania – Double Slots

First of all, as is now common knowledge, all of the qualifying events in the Oceania region have double the chance of qualification. There are also additional spots through the women for tri initiative. Other events worldwide will also have varying qualifying spots available for Taupo 2020.

Race To Your Strengths

Where possible, race to your strengths… Pick a race(s) which suit your life, work and other schedule to give yourself the best chance. That also means picking a course that suits you; whether it be hilly, flat, ocean swim, lake swim, hot and humid conditions or otherwise there is no shame in picking a race that gives you the best opportunity of performing relative to the others in your age group.

Consider Traveling

As a general rule; the further from the location of the World Champs you head to qualify the more likely you are to pick up a spot. Naturally the cost and distance to travel is often the deciding factor when people decide to take their spot or not. If you get yourself to the finish line and attend the roll down ceremony then you will give yourself a chance. And why not combine a race with a holiday or visit to somewhere new/a place you love!

Preparation

As with any event, preparation is paramount. Nail the basics, train consistently and give yourself the best chance of great execution come race day. Generally speaking, the better prepared you are and the better you execute relative to your own resources and abilities, the more likely you are to qualify. This is a case of controlling the controllables (your prep and race) and giving yourself a shot. It may be stating the obvious but we see far too many people get caught up in factors that they cannot control (such as who else is racing and how fast they might go!).

Timing

Also consider the timing of the qualification races you choose… Races around the time of the current world champs event will often see a diluted field – especially if you are willing to travel a little. Early qualification period races are sometimes a good option as you can get the jump on others if they haven’t yet started their planning. Similarly, late qualification period races can mean that many have either already qualified, or, ‘given up’. Also consider timing of events relative to nearby Ironman or regional championship events as these events may appeal to many of the ‘top finishers’ in your age group.

Frequency

The more tickets you have in the raffle, the more likely you are to win!

Remember, it is just triathlon – whether you do or don’t qualify shouldn’t define you!

Sure, have a crack, invest in the attempt and strive to #beyourbest, as always but if you miss out, you miss out. Life goes on and there will be other opportunities. Triathlon should never be a Pass / Fail. If you strive to continually improve and learn then you cannot fail. It is ok to be disappointed if you don’t qualify and/or underperform, much like it is ok to be proud if you do qualify or put forward a great performance but in any case; don’t dwell on it. If you are aiming to qualify then set up your season to give yourself the opportunity, prepare the best you can and find out what you CAN do – if that means you qualify – fantastic! If you don’t; well you haven’t lost a thing!

Planning

Finally, plan ahead. Plan the season. Plan the training phases and progression. Plan your travel. Plan multiple races. Have a plan A, B, C. But, don’t leave it to chance. The timing of this post is not a coincidence. The race is in 17months but the qualification period opens in 2 weeks and lasts for 12months. There is time. Get planning, enjoy the journey and good luck!

Maybe we will see you in Taupo in 2020!