Carleton Triathlon is back!
Minnesota’s oldest standing triathlon is back for the 43rd annual race!

Carleton’s annual triathlon, hosted by the Student Athletic Advisory Committee (SAAC), will take place at 8:00 a.m. on Friday, June 6, 2025 (second reading day) with the first heat starting at 8:30 a.m. The triathlon includes:
- 750-yard swim in West Gym
- 16-mile cycle through Rice and Goodhue counties
- 5k run through Carleton’s Arboretum
Participants can compete as individuals or relay teams of two or three people and is open to Carleton students, faculty, staff, and the greater Northfield and St. Olaf communities. All participants must register by June 2.
Price Breakdown:
- $10 Carleton students (subsidized by Dean Livingston)
- $25 Community/Faculty/St. Olaf
- $30 for an entire relay
- $10 for shirts
All proceeds will go to the Northfield Youth Sports Collaborative. Registration fees include post race barbecue.
Emergency & Contingency Plans
Races are rain or shine unless we determine that race conditions are dangerous. This will be based on a decision made by the race committee in consultation with school staff. Every effort will be made to conduct the race; if the race is cancelled there will be no refunds. This position is consistent with USAT recommendations and with the protocol of sharing the risks associated with the sport of triathlon. Each athlete must accept any such risk for their entry fee paid including other amenities paid for such as t-shirts, insurance, and online administrative fees. All fees collected are used to develop and produce the event, including all race supplies. In the event of inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances, we reserve the right to alter, cancel or eliminate any/all portions of the race.
The following procedure will be followed:
- The race directors in consultation with school staff will make the final decision to delay, adjust or cancel the race.
- The decision will be posted on the website and communicated with participants via email.
- Races may be shortened or have a time limit imposed.
- Aid stations may be self-service with water and sport drinks.
- As a VERY LAST RESORT the race may be cancelled and will not be rescheduled.
- Refunds cannot be given under any circumstances.
Inclement Weather
In the case of rain and thunderstorms on race day we will enact the following safety measures, which will help keep athletes safe and have been developed in consultation with USAT triathlon. Our goal is to do everything in our power to host a complete race. Cancellation is our very last resort and will only be considered after all of the following measures have been taken on race day.- In the case of only rain or clear weather we will plan for an on-time start and complete all races as planned.
- We will not race on course if lightning is present and delaying the event will not be considered out of respect for our volunteers and staff.
- If lightning is present during a race we will stop the race and pull athletes off the course.
- In the case of prolonged lightning, storms, or tornadoes in the area, we will hold the swim session as planned and post-race barbeque. Options for bike and run will be announced at a later time.
- If inclement weather is predicted we may adjust race courses, race distances or eliminate segments of the race so to keep athletes safe and close to our base camp and shelter in the case of quickly approaching storms.
Hot Weather
We encourage you to prepare for hot weather and potential storms. Here are some helpful tips:- Hydrate Well and Fuel well in Advance: Be sure you drink plenty of fluids and eat nutrient rich foods in advance of the race.
- Wear light clothing, a Hat and Sunscreen &: Wear apparel that’s light in color, lightweight, and has vents or mesh. Wicking fabrics are a must. Consider wearing a cap—or better yet, a visor—and sunglasses to reduce heat build-up in your head. Pre-run, apply a broad spectrum, sweat-proof sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher to all exposed skin.
- Lower your Expectations: Accept the fact the race will likely be more difficult than anticipated. Every 5°F rise in temperature above 60°F can slow your pace by as much as 20 to 30 seconds per mile. Start slower than planned, and make getting to the finish running strong your main goal. Run by perceived effort rather than mile splits.
- Use the Aid Stations: At the aid stations, take one cup of water to drink, and another to pour over your head. If necessary, slow and/or walk at aid stations to get enough fluids. Be sure you drink and eat as necessary throughout the race.
- If necessary, stop and walk. If you get overheated or tired, stop and walk. Use the aid stations to rest.
Cold Weather
Cold weather, snow, ice, and freezing wind chills could be a part of the race day weather. Please prepare for these conditions. Dress warmly! Clothing should provide an internal layer that allows evaporation of sweat with minimal absorption, a middle layer that provides insulation, and a removable external layer that is wind and water resistant and allows for evaporation of moisture. Toes, fingers, ears, and skin should be protected the most. Remove wet clothing as soon as practical and replace with dry, clean items. If you are doing multiple races, it is advised you have dry clothes to change into following each race. In between races please return to your cars or other designated warmer stations to get out of the cold.2025 Triathlon Committee Members:
- Jivana Nagpal ’25
- Isabelle Riley ’25
- Lily Wong ‘26
- Jeffery Kong ‘26
- Lola Taraday ‘26
- Efram Stewart ’26
- Sam Gotch ’26
- Nora Wootten ‘27
- Matthew Krogman ’27
- Lilly Soillis ’28
- Leif Petrika ’28
Please direct questions to Jivana Nagpal or Isabelle Riley.