FAQ

What is Z3?

Z3 strives to accomplish our mission by teaching life skills through sport. We are committed to promoting and developing the sport of triathlon to beginner through elite youth athletes, age 10-23, in a team environment. We strive to be the cornerstone youth triathlon team in the Midwest.

Athletes learn about the Z3 7 Pillars of Success. Through hard work and fun, athletes build healthy lifestyles from their experiences in this positive environment for personal growth both in the sport, and in life.

What age does my athlete have to be to participate?

Z3 is a team that consists of athletes from age 6-23.

Who is the head coach?

Jenny Weber is the head coach of Z3. She is one of a handful of USA Triathlon Level II certified coaches in the United States. Jenny has a wealth of knowledge in sports physiology and nutrition. She is also the USA Triathlon Midwest Region Athletic Development Coordinator for USA Triathlon.

Jenny has competed in hundreds of running and triathlon competitions.

How long is the Z3 season? How often do athletes race?

The season typically begins once high school/junior high track season ends and continues through mid-August. On average, athletes compete 6 to 8 times from May through August.

Annually the team travels to the USA Triathlon Junior Olympic Triathlon Festival in August. The event will be hosted in San Diego in 2011.

How often does the team practice? What time are the practices held?

We believe group workouts are what makes Z3 a strong team. The number of practices is dependent on the age of your athlete. During the early part of the season practices are typically held 2 times per week. As the end of the season approaches, practices increase to 5-6 times per week. Practices are held in the early evening during the week and mid-day during the weekend. Athletes who have two unexcused absences are dropped from the team.

Where does the team conduct its training sessions?

The team’s “home base” during the spring is the YMCA Healthy Living Center in Des Moines, Iowa. Most cycling practices are hosted near Brown’s Woods in West Des Moines as the weather warms up.

Practices are also hosted by coaches in Cedar Falls, IA., Chicago, IL., Sioux Falls, SD. and St. Louis, MO.

How much does it cost to have my athlete participate?

Weekly training plans, coached practices and the team uniform are included in the cost of the team fee. There are scholarship opportunities for athletes with financial need.

What equipment does my athlete need to participate? What can Z3 provide, if my athlete doesn’t have a bike, or other needs?

A complete list of equipment is provided at the team try-outs. At minimum, every athlete will need swim goggles, road bike, bike shoes, bike shorts, bike helmet and running shoes.

Will sponsors be providing anything for my kids?

The team works with sponsors so team members can take advantage of discounted gear.

How does my child join the team?

Try-outs are held once a year. Every athlete must complete a swim, bike, and run test, and an interview with the team coaches. Athletes are selected based on their interest and ability. Average swimming skills are very beneficial.

For more information please email info@z3triathlon.org