Around 450 people will swim, bike and run over 17 miles across the University’s campus Sunday at 8 a.m. for the annual Tri-the-Illini triathlon.

There’s no cash prize — in fact, they’re all paying to do it. The sole reward is the accomplishment of completing the race held by the Illinois Triathlon Club.

Since 2017, the triathlon consists of a 300-meter swim, a 14.4-mile bike ride and a five-kilometer run. The event will take place all across Champaign-Urbana, starting at the Activities and Recreation Center’s outdoor pool for the swim and weaving throughout campus for the bike and run.

“Tri-the-Illini is meant for everybody,” race director Charlie Doubleday said.

According to Doubleday and Illinois Triathlon President Andrew Tobin, this “for everybody” mindset is at the heart of the ITC.

“It’s just how the team works,” Tobin said. “Nobody is perfect at all three sports, everybody’s learning.”

The student race staff have placed a particular emphasis on being inclusive of athletes at all levels of the sport.

“I was dealing with a participant a couple days ago, and they asked how long would it take to complete each step, and I told her, ‘We will wait for you. No matter how fast or how slow you go. We are here for you,’” Doubleday said. 

For many people, even contemplating a triathlon can seem daunting. However, the ITC puts heavy emphasis on balance. 

“We have practice every day, and we don’t usually combine the three sports,” Doubleday said. “Each day is independent swim, bike or run. Whatever you’re least confident (in), don’t show up that day. Let’s say you come from a swimming background, show up to the swim.” 

Whatever an individual’s athletic background may be, Tobin said the real secret to success is consistency.

“With any of the three sports, consistently practicing for twice a week is all you need, and it’s amazing how much you can progress from a beginner level,” Tobin said. 

For those competing in the Tri-the-Illini or a triathlon in the future, Tobin — a six-time triathlete — and Doubleday — a three-time triathlete — have some underrated tips for reducing race time.

“One of the hidden keys of a race and an interesting way to improve your time is the transitions between the events,” Tobin said.

Doubleday said the mental aspect of the race was as prevalent as the physical.

“A big thing, as much as it is a cliche, is definitely mentality,” Doubleday said. “I think everyone can swim a 300-meter swim, do a 14-mile bike, do a 5k independently. But once you add them together, that really is a significant amount of time you are at a relatively high heart rate.” 

The front page of the ITC’s website shares, “Illinois Triathlon Club is a group of athletes and friends.” For Tobin and Doubleday, the friendship aspect of the club seems to be just as important as any of the triathlons. 

“My favorite part of the club is the people that I have met and the friendships and relationships that I have built over these last two years,” Tobin said.

Doubleday added these relationships might not have formed otherwise.

“I have definitely overlapped with people that I would usually never meet,” Doubleday said. “There’s a design major (in the club), and I am more of an analytical type of person. So, in my class load, I would never overlap with them, but it’s a gift to interact with so many people.” 

ITC’s goal is not to create a cutthroat environment but rather to find a way to bring people together, according to members.

“At the end of the day, our club is very open to every skill level and we will not cut you like other competitive clubs,” Doubleday said.

To learn more about the Tri-the Illini and the Triathlon club, visit their website, Instagram or follow their mailing list. 

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