- What is the elevation of the race?
- The race takes place at approximately 2,100 metres (6,900 feet). Athletes coming from sea level should arrive at least 5-7 days early to acclimatise to the thin air.
- Is the swim in Grindstone Lake wetsuit legal?
- Yes, water temperatures in October typically range between 14-17°C (58-63°F), making wetsuits highly recommended and almost always mandatory for age groupers.
- What is the mountain bike course like?
- Expect technical singletrack with significant climbing. The terrain is rocky and contains loose 'kitty litter' soil over hardpack. Schwalbe Racing Ralph or Maxxis Ikon tyres are popular choices here.
- Where is transition and packet pickup?
- Packet pickup and the main race village are usually centered at Wingfield Park in Midtown, while the swim start is at Grindstone Lake (approx. 1.5km away).
- How do I get my bike to Ruidoso?
- Most athletes fly into El Paso (ELP) and rent a large SUV. Alternatively, TriBike Transport may offer services, or you can ship via BikeFlights to a local bike shop.
- What should I wear for the run?
- The run is an off-road trail run with steep pitches. Use trail shoes with good lug depth as the descent back towards Wingfield Park can be slippery if dry.