Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a member of a club to enter?

 No - The Wales Sportive is open to all club and non-club cyclists.

Will there be timing chips?

Yes - it needs to be worn on the left-hand side of your helmet and will be issued at Registration. 

IMPORTANT INFORMATION - your tag will not work if placed on carbon fibre; if you have a carbon fibre helmet or the part of your helmet you are attaching the tag to is made of carbon fibre you will need to report to registration to obtain a seat label.

Can I Transfer, Defer or Refund My Entry?

Please see Terms and Conditions for all answers regarding transfer, deferrals and refunds.

How can I register for the event?

Simply go to the registration page by clicking on the homepage and entering online via Eventrac.  We do not accept paper entries.

Are there any age restrictions?

Yes there are.  You must be 14 years or over to compete in the 42 mile distance, 16 years or over to compete in the 70 mile distance, and 18 years or over to compete in the 112 mile distance.

PARTICIPANTS UNDER 16 MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT ENTERED INTO THE RACE OR IT WILL BE ASSUMED THAT THEY ARE CAPABLE OF COMPLETING THE DISTANCE

Can someone else register me?

No, you MUST register yourself with photographic ID. For registration opening times please refer to https://www.thewalessportive.com/athletes/event-info/ 

When is the closing date for registration?

The closing date for the event will be as close to the event as possible, in order to make final event arrangements.  This date will be published closer to the time, but as an estimate, last year, registration closed 4 weeks prior to the event.

How do I know if my entry has been successful?

You will receive a confirmation email within 24 hours of entering.  If you don't receive a confirmation email, please firstly check your junk mail folder.  If you have any concerns regarding your entry please email us at [email protected].

Are there official photographers?

Yes Finisherpix are the official photographers at this event.  You can pre-order photos when you register, or purchase photos after the event from Finisherpix.  Please note, with over 10,000 athletes competing, it can take up to two weeks for Finisherpix to sort through all photos.  If you have any queries please contact Finisherpix.

What time does registration open?

Registration detail will be available on the Event information page.  For opening times please refer to https://www.thewalessportive.com/athletes/event-info/

Is there an expo?

The LCW Wales Expo will be open at the event village (The Salterns) on:

Thursday 29th June 2023: 1pm - 8pm

Friday 30th July 2023: 9am - 5pm

Saturday 1st July 2023: 9am - 4pm

Can I enter if I have a disability?

 Athletes with a registered disability will need to contact the race office to discuss whether the race is suitable and safe to enter.

Can I use Tri Bars (aerobars)?

Tri Bars will be allowed on course.

Do I need a specific type of bike?

You can use any bike that is roadworthy and complies with the British Triathlon Federation rules.  However, you can use electric bikes on a 40mile distance. No tandems.  

What is better about a road bike?

To be blunt, what isn't better?  Road bikes are exactly that, bikes which are designed for use on the road.  They typically feature a more aggressive racing position, a high saddle and dropped handlebars, that encourage a more aerodynamic posture with more weight over the front of the bike for more power.  A stiff, rigid frame reduces energy loss to suspension and ensures maximum energy is transferred from you to the wheels.  A gear ratio designed with high-power cycling in mind means you can put down power at close-to-speed.  If you were racing a downhill slope style race, you wouldn't use a road bike, so similarly when cycling on roads, you wouldn't use a full-suspension rock chomper capable of tackling the Grand Canyon!

Do I need a specific helmet?

Your helmet must meet the British Triathlon specifications of ANSI Z90.4, SNELL B90, EN 1078.  A "CE" mark is not an approved mark and is not acceptable.  The helmet must not have any cracks in it and the strap must be in good working order.

Where do I have to apply the bike and helmet stickers?

You must apply one sticker on your bike seat post and one on the front of your helmet.

What support is available out on course?

There will be mechanical back-up and medical back-up in the form of sweep vehicles.  You will be given phone numbers for both mechanics and medics in the event pack.  It is highly recommended you save these numbers in your phone before starting the event, in case of emergency.

Is drafting permitted during the race?

Drafting is permitted. Please note that Tri-Bars/Aero Bars are not allowed to draft.  For further information on race rules please go to https://www.thewalessportive.com/athletes/rules/

How is the start organised?

For information on start times? Please go to https://www.thewalessportive.com/athletes/event-info/

Is there a cut off time?

Contrary to popular belief, you do not have a maximum of 6 hours to complete the course.  There is a cut-off time of 1:00pm for the first lap, so your start time will dictate how much time you have.  The overall cut-off for the sportive is 5pm.  For more information regarding ability and speed, please refer to https://www.thewalessportive.com/athletes/rules

Will there be Drink/Feed stations on the route?

Yes - there are three stations which are self service in Lamphey, Tenby and Templeton.

However, if you would like to carry any energy gels to keep you going, please feel free to do so, however please label your gels with your race number and disposed of properly. . All cyclists must carry 2 water bottles.