Great Floridian Triathlon Medical Information
Under the direction Dr. J. Michael Ray and support of South Lake Hospital and Lake-Sumter EMS, the GREAT FLORIDIAN TRIATHLON medical coverage is the most comprehensive you'll find at any event. There will be medical staff and facilities throughout the racecourse. The primary medical base station is located at the finish line. The newly completed South Lake Hospital is one mile from the race site. Mobile medical vans will travel the bike and run courses to provide assistance if needed. Please ask for medical help if you have the slightest hint you may need it. YOU WILL NOT BE PENALIZED FOR RECEIVING MEDICAL EVALUATION OR MINOR HELP. You will be withdrawn from the race only if you require transportation, IV fluids, or if medical personnel feel your continued participation could result in permanent harm.
Remember, during such an event of extreme endurance, the body's pain threshold is raised and you may be in more trouble than you realize. Medical personnel will do all they can to keep you in the race and assure you a safe finish. Particular dangers include dehydration, hypothermia, sunburn, exhaustion and injuries. Please be attentive while receiving handoffs from the bike support stations. Most bike related injuries in an event of this nature are the result of an athlete losing control of their bike at the bike support stations.
We can never emphasize too much the importance of properly hydrating prior to and during the event. Start several days before the event and drink enough water so your urine is clear, colorless and copious by race day. Remember that the use of a wetsuit during the swim will result in increased water loss, so be sure and take fluids at the conclusion of your first lap of the swim and again at the end of the swim, even though you may not be thirsty. It is important that you replace sodium in your system during the race so please take advantage of the Gatorade and salty snacks that are available during the race.
If you are taking medications or have any medical problem, which may influence your performance or your treatment in the event of an injury, please be sure that you have advised us of all necessary details well in advance of race day. A medical survey must be completed by all athletes during check-in. If you have medical related questions, medical personal will be available at Friday's athlete meetings.
Other Resources
Proper Hydration for Distance Running- Identifying Individual Fluid Needs
USATF Self-Testing Program for Optimal Hydration