F.A.Q.’s
Q: What’s a “Dry Tri”?
A: Our event is called a “Dry Tri” because triathlons typically included a swim, since we’re doing a triathlon that includes running, cycling, a paddle race and NOT a swim, it’s a ‘no swim’ triathlon, thus you stay dry. Tah-dah!!! “Dry Tri”! Kinda clever huh!
Q: Do I have to be a Police Officer of Firefighter to participate?
A: Heck no! If you are a first responder, (Police, Fire, EMS, Telecommunicator) you get a discounted price for registration but we want EVERYONE and ANYONE who is willing to come compete! When you register, you are simply choosing which Department you support, Police or Fire, to help us determine who is getting bragging rights for the next year. Regardless of who wins, all net profits will be split 50/50 between the two Departments.
Q: Are canoes or kayaks supplied?
A: No, however a limited number of canoes are available for rent from the City of Luling. Contact the rental location of your choice, you may choose from the list we have posted at the bottom of this page. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are required.
Q: What is the order of the race?
A: You will start with a 12 mile bike ride, transition to a 3.23 mile run and then the 6 mile paddle.
Q: How long does it take to complete the race?
A: About 3 hours on average. Many participants do the event at a leisurely non-competitive pace.
Q: Do I have to have a partner?
A: Nope! Be a BMF and do it solo, with a partner, (one bike, one run, BOTH paddle) or with a three person relay team (one bike, one run, one paddle).
This year we have another division that we’re calling “tandem”. That means all team mates individually bike, and run, (we take the average times from those events) and then everyone paddles in the same boat. I guess if you wanted to roll in a two seat bike this would be your division. Good luck with all that…
Q: Where does the money go? Who benefits and how?
A: The registration profit will be split 50/50 between the Luling Police and Fire Departments. Those agencies would use the monies to purchase gear, support other community functions (Example: Luling PD Blue Santa), replace equipment, or supplement needs in the K9 unit, Swift Water Rescue or where a need is most urgent.
The Luling Fire Department will be earning all profits from BBQ plate sales.
The Luling Area Chamber of Commerce will be earning all profit from beer sales.
The Luling High School Cross Country Team will be earning all profit from non-alcoholic (water/ tea) beverage sales. (that is to say, the STATE AWARD WINNING Luling H.S. Cross Country Team! OWWWWWWWW!!!!)
The Luling Women’s Auxiliary Fire Department will be earning all profit from the spaghetti plates on evening of Saturday, September 7. Packet pickup pasta party at South-side Clubhouse.
The Luling Police Department will be earning all profit from merchandise sales. (We will also be picking up all loose change that rattles out of your pockets/sock/ fanny packs, during the event. Don’t worry, the money will be used to buy the patrol guys breakfast taco’s, not donuts!)
Q: Is the course for road or mountain bikes?
A: The biking section is paved so it’s your call. Just be aware that even though these roads are paved, sections are still kinda rough. Just like life. Don’t be a whiny lil sissy…
Q: What is the terrain like for the run?
A: The run is mostly on the shoulder of paved roads, however some short sections could be off road and very rough at times.
Q: What if it rains on race day?
A: You’ll get wet. Cops and Fire Fighters don’t get ‘weather days’- suck it up buttercup!
Q: Do I have to be a hardcore athlete to participate, or how competitive is the race?
A: The majority of racers will go at a leisurely pace. About 10% will go hard and compete for the top places. However just finishing earns you bragging rights!
Q: What time can I drop off equipment the morning of the race?
A: Staging may begin at 7:30 a.m. All checkpoints will be open by 8:00 a.m. Race starts at 8:30 a.m.
Q: Is there a time limit to complete the course?
A: No but you need to be done before the sun goes down and the Party wont wait for you, so hustle up!
Q: Can I use a raft instead of a canoe or kayak?
A: Technically, but a canoe or kayak is preferred. No motorized watercraft or automated propeller. (Cause that would be cheating clown! )
Q: What does my registration fee include?
A: Race entry, t-shirt, swag bag with goodies, race bib, and a great challenge on a great course, entry into the post-race party, Beer*, 1 BBQ Plate, and knowledge that you are helping the Luling Police and Fire Departments.
*One beer is included for each participant who is of legal age to consume alcohol. Be responsible – do not drink and drive. (You’ll be surrounded by cops- any underage or DWI attempt will at the very least result in an entry on your criminal record and you being the punch line of jokes for years to come.)
Q: Can I drink more than a beer?
A: I dunno- Can you? You certainly may, assuming a few things- you have to buy it from the Chamber of Commerce Beer tent at Zedler Mill during the post race party, ( Absolutely NO outside alcohol will be allowed on site.) you have to be of legal age to consume, and you have to be responsible. Assuming you comply with those rules and common sense, game on.
Q: When is the entry deadline?
A: You may register at the EVENT an hour before wheels hit the ground, however you must bring cash or check and you probably wont receive an awesome swag bag, which is why we STRONGLY encourage online registration. (Don’t be “THAT” guy, no one likes “THAT” guy. Go register online- go… now- go!)
Q: What will I need the day of the race?
A: Shoes, Bike, helmet, tire pump, extra tire tube, boat, life vest, and a water bottle. You may also want to consider bringing sunscreen, bug spray, and dry clothes for at the finish line. You will also need cold hard cash. All sales down at the Zedler Mill post race party will be cash. So the extra BBQ plates you slam, the additional frosty wheat sodas you crave, the other awesome t-shirts you wanna rock, will all require more than your good looks and winning personality to purchase, bring the cash!
Q: Are canoes or kayaks supplied?
A: No, however a limited number of canoes are available for rent. Please contact one of the area rentals places to check availability. LULING DRY TRI will NOT coordinate your canoe/ kayak rental. Personal flotation devices (PFDs) are required.
Rentals
City of Luling Parks Department
Phone: (512) 227-1724 or (512) 738-0667
Email: parks@cityofluling.net
T.G. Canoe Livery
402 Pecan Park Drive
San Marcos, Texas 78666
Phone: (512) 353-3946
Mud Outdoor Center, Kayak Rentals
3827 RR 620
Bee Cave, Texas 78738
Phone: (512) 263-0004
dwalker@mudoutdoorcenter.com
www.mudoutdoorcenter.com
Power Olympic Outdoor Center
602 IH 35 North
San Marcos, Texas 78666
Phone: (512) 392-9910
www.redriverracing.com
Rising Phoenix Adventures
Kayak and Canoe Rentals
Shuttles and Guides
Phone: (512) 677-2305
Bastrop, Texas
www.risingphoenixadventures.com
Spencer Canoes
9515 FM 1978
Martindale, Texas 78655
Phone: (512) 357-6113
spencercanoes.net
Austin Canoe and Kayak
Rent kayaks, canoes, and standup paddleboards by the day to take anywhere you want, when you want. Locations in Austin, Houston and the San Marcos/New Braunfels area.
REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.)
Rent kayaks, canoes, paddles, and PFDs (personal flotation devices) 7 days a week at your nearest REI co-op.

