When COVID-19 hit in the spring, Tuxedo Brothers, Indianapolis’ premier outdoor event management company, had to postpone or cancel many of its most popular events, including running races and triathlons.
Some events went “virtual” which is when runners complete the event on their own and submit their times.
But now athletes will have the chance to compete in person as Tuxedo Brothers prepares for their second event since March. They’ve implemented social distancing guidelines, and safely put on the Cicero Triathlon this past Saturday at Red Bridge Park in Cicero.
“We’re so excited to open our multisport season, but we want to make sure every participant, volunteer, spectator and staff member feels comfortable and safe,” said Jason Springer of Tuxedo Brothers Event Management. “Safety is our top concern and we’re confident we have everything in place for a fun and safe morning in Cicero.”
The event included a sprint triathlon which consisted of a 400-yard swim, an 11-mile bike and a three-mile run.
Some participants also chose a duathlon, which is a two-mile run, an 11-mile bike and a three-mile run.
The event was capped at 225 participants and there were markings for six-foot spacings at Packet Pickup. Volunteers wore masks and gloves and there was hand sanitizer available. High traffic areas were wiped down, and awards were “self-serve” once the names were announced. Participants were also asked to wear a mask when not competing and post-race mingling was discouraged. Changes were also made to the swim start and the layout of the transition area.
Tuxedo Brothers will continue their annual tradition of hosting the Fourth of July CarmelFest Freedom Run. This year, the race will go virtual because of the pandemic.
Springer said the race was too important to skip.
“It’s a big tradition for some families and people like to get together for their big run or walk,” Springer said. “We’re so happy that we have a way they can continue that tradition and people can still stay connected to the event. We plan to be back in full force next year.”
Participants can choose between a five-mile option that replaces the traditional 4.5-mile run, and a 1.5-mile run. Cost is $27 for the first two family members to register, with the price being $20 for each additional family member. Active military personnel may register for $22.
A packet pickup is planned for July 3 for runners to be able to pick up their T-shirts at the Runners Forum, 620 Station Drive, Carmel. More info on this can be found here.
Tuxedo Brothers will donate $5 to Pack Away Hunger, a non-profit that distributes meals in Indianapolis, for every person who signs up.
Participants can sign up through July 3 and can complete the distance any time between June 29 and July 5. Click here to register.
And that’s not all that Tuxedo Brothers has planned. They’re working on the Indy Sprint Tri Series, which takes place on July 11 and Aug. 15. The June 13 event was canceled but is set to be rescheduled. Registration is now open for those other two events at Eagle Creek.
Registration is also open for the Go Girl Triathlon on Aug. 22. In addition, TRI Indy is planned for July 26 at White River Parks and registration is open.
Participants are encouraged to visit tuxbro.com for updates on all events or email Jason@TuxBro.com.