The later start time at the Cohasset Triathlon will give the
morning fog time to clear before the swim start. Sleepy
athletes will probably appreciate the change. Photo by Olddanb
While the decision to move the start of the Cohasset Sprint Triathlon from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. may not have been what caused the fourth edition of the race to sell out in seventy-two hours, it is a sign of the race directors' commitment to put on a safe and well-organized race. The thinking behind the new start time was not only to allow the 875 athletes and 30 relay teams to sleep in another hour before driving to the South Shore to set up their transition areas, it also prevents other environmental hazards.
The later start time allows for calmer tidal conditions, making for a safer swim course. It will also give time for the morning fog to clear, improving swim visibility. Other local races such as the 2008 Mooseman half ironman have been forced to delay starts for safety reasons due to fog. Cohasset race officials also plan to double the number of kayaks patrolling the course.
A later start also gives more time for locals to come out and cheer for the race, something that all competitors will appreciate. But the Cohasset Chamber of Commerce worries that the later start will affect local businesses, which rely on Sunday foot traffic for much of their revenue. On the other hand, with over 950 hungry triathletes and their families milling around town after the race, it is doubtful that local businesses will be hurting for patrons.
The Cohasset Triathlon will take place on Sunday, June 27, 2010 at 9 a.m. In its four-year history, the race has raised almost $50,000 for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.
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