Training squads

We have three training squads: Caimans, Crocs and Dragons. 

Membership of each squad is based on a combination of age, ability, attitude and commitment to the sport.  Movement between squads is at the discretion of the Club coaches.  The training schedule is advertised in advance so members can arrive prepared.

Caimans

Typically the Caimans squad comprises triathletes ages 8-11 years.   

Generally, run and cycle training is done off-road on a playing field or occasionally at a local wooded area for other biking skills.  Swimming is done in the pool, though older more confident swimmers may be invited to join the open water swim sessions in the summer months.

Crocs

Typically the Crocs squad comprises triathletes ages 12-16 years.   

Generally, run and cycle training is done off-road on a playing field or occasionally at a local wooded area for other biking skills.  However, older Crocs (14+) may occasionally join the Dragons for a 2 hour road cycling session. 

Swimming is done in the pool, though confident swimmers can join the open water swim sessions in the summer months.

Dragons

Typically the Dragons squad comprises triathletes ages 14-16 years who have shown a continued commitment to training and racing. 

The objective of the Dragons squad is to provide a progressive training environment for those athletes competing in the Regional League and serious about continuing to develop their Triathlon training and racing. The aim is to provide a pathway between the Junior and Senior sections of the Club.

The Dragons generally participate in the same sessions as the Crocs, however, they also have dedicated sessions for road cycling. For example:

• cycling to a local Park Run, completing the run and cycling back
• a continuous 2-3 hour road ride
• summer-time chain-gang training

Dragons are also eligible to attend some of the Senior training session, such as the Senior open water lake swim sessions in the summer and turbo-training in the winter.

How do I progress between training squads?

Movement between squads is at the discretion of the Club coaches and you will be contacted by the coaches when you are ready to move up.  The progression between Caimans and Crocs is mainly based on age and ability.  Movement from Crocs into Dragons is more complex and won’t be suitable for everybody.

The objective of the Dragons squad is to provide a progressive training environment for those athletes competing in the regional league and serious about continuing to develop their triathlon training and racing. The aim is to provide a pathway between the Junior and Senior (i.e. adult) sections of the Club, i.e. progressing from ‘attending the Junior Triathlon Club’ to becoming focused on ‘training for triathlons’.

Invitations to join the Dragons squad are extended to Crocs members based on having the required level for the criteria listed below. Consideration will be given to those athletes who demonstrate the required behaviours during training and whose performances in Club Championship cycling time-trials and races are in line with the Dragons squad.

1. Age range from Upper Tristar 3 to Junior
2. Cycling control, speed and endurance to safely participate in summer chain-gang rides and Saturday morning 2 hour group rides
3. Enthusiastic and mature attitude towards training such that they can participate in Senior Club sessions
4. Regularly attend training