Para triathlon is an inclusive sport with three main classification divisions: Wheelchair (PTWC), Ambulant/Standing (PTS), and Visually Impaired (PTVI). This guide focuses on the crucial role of guides in the PTVI category, which caters to athletes with blindness or partial sight. If you’re interested in learning how to assist athletes with visual impairments in triathlon, this Para Triathlon Guide is for you.
Understanding the PTVI Category
The PTVI category is a combined class. Athletes with very limited or no light perception (B1 athletes) begin the race with a head start over partially sighted B2 and B3 athletes. The head start is factored; for example, in past races, it has been approximately 3 minutes 21 seconds for men and 3 minutes 48 seconds for women. Guides are indispensable for these athletes, providing support and direction throughout the entire race.
The Guide’s Role in Each Discipline
A single guide must accompany the athlete throughout the entire event. This collaboration demands trust, communication, and seamless teamwork across all three triathlon disciplines: swimming, cycling, and running.
Swimming
During the swim, the guide and athlete are connected by a tether, typically no longer than 1 meter. Athletes often have preferences regarding the tether’s design. The guide’s role is to provide directional support, ensuring the athlete stays on course and avoids obstacles.
Cycling
The cycling leg is completed on a tandem bike. The guide, riding in front, is responsible for navigating the course, communicating road conditions, and making tactical decisions. The pair must work in sync to maximize speed and efficiency. The guide should be an experienced cyclist capable of handling a tandem at race pace.
Running
On the run, the guide and athlete are tethered once again. Designated zones are typically established around technical corners where physical contact is permitted to provide additional support. Outside these zones, the athlete must lead the pair, with the guide offering verbal cues and encouragement.
Essential Skills for a Para Triathlon Guide
Effective communication is paramount for a successful guide-athlete partnership. The guide must constantly inform the athlete about course features, potential obstructions, and any tactical adjustments to the race plan. Beyond clear communication, a guide should possess:
- Strong swimming, cycling, and running abilities: The guide must be able to keep pace with the athlete across all three disciplines.
- Exceptional navigation skills: The guide must be able to navigate the course efficiently and safely.
- Excellent communication skills: Clear and concise communication is critical for relaying information to the athlete.
- Adaptability and problem-solving skills: The guide must be able to react quickly to changing conditions and solve problems on the fly.
- Empathy and patience: Building a strong relationship with the athlete requires empathy and patience.
Spotlight on Scottish Guides
Several Scottish athletes have excelled as para triathlon guides, demonstrating the impact and rewards of this role.
Brooke Gillies, a British Super Series competitor, recently guided two-time Paralympian Alison Peasgood. Their partnership quickly blossomed, culminating in a 3rd place finish at the 2021 World Triathlon Para Championships Abu Dhabi. Brooke emphasizes the unexpected paths triathlon can lead to and encourages other triathletes to consider guiding.
Molly Kidd, a member of the 2021 Triathlon Scotland Academy, also embraced guiding, serving as a reserve athlete and guide in the paratriathlon race at the 2021 School Games. Hazel Macleod, an experienced guide, competed in her second Paralympics, guiding Melissa Reid to a 7th place finish in Tokyo, after previously guiding Alison Peasgood to a silver medal in Rio 2016.
Getting Involved in Para Triathlon
Becoming a para triathlon guide is a rewarding experience that allows you to give back to the sport and help athletes achieve their dreams. If you are interested in learning more or getting involved, contact your national triathlon federation or a local para triathlon organization.
Conclusion
Guiding in para triathlon is more than just assisting an athlete; it’s about forging a partnership built on trust, communication, and mutual respect. This para triathlon guide provides a comprehensive overview of the role, skills, and opportunities involved. Consider becoming a guide and experience the profound impact you can have on an athlete’s journey.
