Dear Triathlete:

Welcome to the Gulf Coast Triathlon, America's best Half Ironman!

The race consists of a 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike and a 13.1 mile run.

The swim is in the Gulf of Mexico. Seas are generally calm but the gulf water conditions can change rapidly and the surf can be rough. Water temperatures average 73 degrees. Wetsuits may be allowed based on water temperatures and in accordance to regulations by the USA Triathlon. The allowance of wetsuits will be decided on race morning.

The bike portion of the race travels through residential, commercial and rural areas of Panama City Beach and Bay County. The course is flat and fast with head winds averaging 15mph.

The run is an out and back course traveling through residential areas of Panama City Beach, home of the World's Most Beautiful Beaches, and St Andrews State Recreation Area, one of Florida's most popular State Parks. Temperature averages 85 degrees with high humidity.

Aid Stations are plentiful (evey 5 miles on the bike and 1 mile on the run) with the friendliest volunteers offering you encouragement and refreshment. Stations will have water, Gatorade, fruit, nutrition bars, cookies and medical aid.

This year's event will include a three-day sports exposition - Friday night pasta dinner and
A mandatory pre-race meeting for last minute announcements
- Saturday night celebration dinner and AND AWARDS CELEBRATION with video highlights of this year's race!

During race time I would also like to remind you to thank the volunteers and sponsors for their outstanding support without which this event could not happen.

The GCT Committee and I wish you the best of luck at this year's GCT.

Happy Racing,

Shelly Bramblett
Race Director