Triathlon involves a fair amount of logistics, planning and packing, but most race organizers do their best to make things as simple and smooth as possible.
There's the swim out, bike in and out, run out, transition in, T1, T2, etc..
Coach Ken's presentation at the Becoming Tri-Wise seminar series at the LakeView RecPlex
Presentation to the Chicago Tri Club
USAT Rule Book: http://triathlon.teamusa.org/content/index/1684
Don't get a time penalty or disqualified. Know the USA Triathlon Drafting, Passing, and Blocking Rules.
Don't be standing in transition looking for something you left at home. Use our checklist to make sure you have everything you need.