Frequently Asked Questions
When is the race?
Sunday, May 4, 2008 at 2:00 PM
Where is it held?
Long Hunter State Park (10 miles east of Nashville International Airport)
How do we register?
Go to the Online Registration page to sign up
What and how far?
One entrant bikes 9 miles on relatively flat roads, covering a 3-mile loop three times. Then the team canoes together about 2 miles around a buoy course on Couchville Lake. Finally, the racer who didn't bike will run, jog or crawl 4 miles on an out-and-back dirt trail. (Of course, you may accompany your partner and do all three segments. Some teams have their kids join them for one or more segments; we encourage family participation.)
How competitive is the triathlon?
As competitive as you want it to be! In the first four years, we had a number of fit, fast racers, some in between dawdlers, and a bunch of walkers. There is no official clock. We don’t keep time and we don’t keep track. The idea is to have fun and enjoy the great outdoors. There is no time limit.
How much does it cost?
A minimum donation of $50 per team to the Harpeth River Watershed Association is required. When you complete the registration form, you will be taken to a confirmation page with instructions for sending in your donation. In effect, your registration fee is a tax-deductible donation.
What is the Harpeth River Watershed Association?
The HRWA is the beneficiary of the Lost Loon Triathlon. Based in Franklin, Tenn., the HRWA is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization which is dedicated to keeping the Harpeth River clean and safe for all of us. They are scientific folks, and plenty smart.
What sort of weather should we expect in Nashville in May?
It'll probably be warm, perhaps even bordering on downright hot. The Lost Loon has been moved back a month from previous years. That means the chances of "cold and windy" are slim to none. We doubt we’ll be building a fire this year.
How about the kids?
They are invited and encouraged to be there. In past years, the kids were very helpful staffing the water and snack tables as race volunteers. Some biked and/or ran part way with their parents. Still others completed the entire triathlon -- a real self-esteem boost!
Can we take our kids in the canoe with us?
That depends how many kids you have. Park rules allow a maximum of three people per canoe.
What about the finish line?
This is one of the best Lost Loon traditions. Racers finish the race by squeezing the “Lost Loon” stuffed animal, which then lets out its distinctive and plaintive loon call for all and sundry to hear. It is a true pleasure.
What about the post-race party?
We have reserved the covered shelter at Long Hunter State Park, right next to the start-finish line. Pizza and cake will be provided for all. Not to worry, there are flush toilets at the shelter. There will be plenty of other goodies to munch on as well.
What can I bring or do?
Click here for volunteer opportunities.
What if I don’t want to race but want to help out?
Come!!! We need spectators and volunteers to point the bikers in the right direction, meet the pizza guy, make sure the canoes don’t float away, etc. Round up your friends, grandparents, anybody. It’s fun. Click here for volunteer opportunities.
What if I don’t have a canoe?
Canoes, paddles and flotation devices will be provided, free of charge. Our wonderful canoe partners, The Tennessee Paddler and Canoe Music City, will be toting canoes to the park for us. We are delighted that these two dependable outfitters are working with the Lost Loon this year. Next time you paddle the Harpeth, Buffalo or Duck Rivers, these are the folks to call. Note that park rules require that flotation devices be worn at all time in the canoes.
Can we bring our own canoe?
You are welcome to use your own canoe. See the race director if you have questions about whether your boat qualifies.
What if I don't have a bike?
Beg, borrow or steal! Bike helmets are required.
How will we recognize our canoe?
Smart question. They all look alike when lined up on the beach. Bring something with a distinctive color to tie onto your canoe so you don't waste time mid-race looking for your boat. A brightly-colored bandana works well.
What if the weather is awful?
We’re planning on a beautiful day. But if it’s not, be tough. The “Lost Loon” will fly!
When should we arrive?
Plan on arriving by between 12:15 pm - 1:30 pm to register, sign in and pick up your goody bags. Note that race sign-in will close at 1:30 pm for all racers. You will also need to pick out your canoe, size your paddle, and adjust your mandatory life preserver before race director Willy Stern goes over the race instructions at 1:45 p.m. This is also prime time to prance about and try to psyche out the competition. Returning racers: Please note that pre-race registration rules have changed. To reiterate, race sign-in will close at 1:30 pm for all racers!
Winner’s Prize?
To avoid any teams gaming the system, there will be no announcements as to what the trophy is for in 2008 until the awards ceremony after the race. As per Lost Loon custom, last year's winners will be responsible for this year's award.
Past prize winners
2007—Jody Reynolds & Michael Dukes, and their three children, Amala, Ryland and Grey, for setting the all-time record for the novel interpretation of course rules.
2006—Skip Hindman and Tim Niarhos, fastest canoe leg.
2005—Ike May and Matt Woolsey, fastest team.
2004—Carrington and David Fox, last place finishers.
Will we get race t-shirts?
You betcha’! Wicking shirts and very cools ones at that! They are real collector's items. Just check out what the Lost Loon race shirts are going for on eBay nowadays.
Any final words from the park ranger at Long Hunter?
Yes. Park Rangers gently remind us that no alcohol is allowed on state park property.
Can we bring our dogs?
Sorry. Park rules don't allow pets.
Didn't we make donations last year?
This year we are once again raising money for the Harpeth River Watershed Association; These are the wonderful folks who are keeping the river clean for your family and friends. A gracious patron will once again match all donations up to $500 per team. Your entire registration fee is tax-deductible. The minimum registration fee is $50 per team, but "fees" up to $500 per team are more than welcomed.
Other Questions?
If you do not see your question answered here, contact race director Willy Stern.
