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Transfier

SAFETY TIPS

At Transfier, we want to offer you not only a spectacular competition on the Transfăgărășan road, but also the safest experience possible—from the start to crossing the finish line.

We do everything we can to prepare a safe course, with medical teams ready-to-act and trained volunteers to support you along the way. However, race safety doesn’t depend only on the organizers—you, as an athlete, are an essential partner in this process.

We encourage you to listen to your body, objectively assess your level of preparation and the conditions on race day, and make the right decision for yourself. In the end, you are the one who decides whether a situation is safe for you or if it’s time to stop.

Transfier is a unique challenge, and we want every story from the start line to end well at the finish. Swim, ride, and run smart. Enjoy the race. Enjoy the road. Enjoy safety.

Safety Tips for SWIMMING

The swimming segment of Transfier takes place in open water—a more challenging environment than the pool. We want you to enjoy this experience safely, so here are some important recommendations:

  1. Prepare for real conditions
  • Train in open water before race day to get used to the water temperature, reduced visibility, waves, and lack of guide lines.
  • The water is cold, so a wetsuit is usually mandatory.
  • Train with other teammates or a triathlon club—never swim alone, no matter your level.
  1. Know the course and rules
  • Check the athlete’s guide and race map to understand the start points, course, turn buoys, and exit from the water.
  • Identify visual landmarks on shore or in the landscape to help orient yourself during the swim.
  1. Manage your effort and start position
  • If you’re not a very experienced swimmer, line up towards the back or sides to avoid accidental hits from other participants.
  • Don’t start at full speed—gradually find your rhythm, breathe steadily, and maintain a sustainable pace.
  1. React correctly in case of difficulties
  • If you feel tired, switch temporarily to another stroke (backstroke, breaststroke) and breathe calmly.
  • If you panic, stop, regulate your breathing, and if needed, signal for help by raising your hand or calling to the safety team.
  • You may rest by holding onto a static object (boat, buoy, float) without advancing—you will not be disqualified.
  1. Other useful tips
  • Avoid outdoor training if there’s a risk of storms.
  • Don’t eat a heavy meal less than two hours before the start.
  • Don’t try new gear on race day—use only what you’ve tested in training.

Our goal is to give you a memorable and safe swim segment. With the right preparation and attention to your body’s signals, you’ll successfully overcome the first challenge of Transfier and move on strongly in the race.

Safety Tips for CYCLING

The Transfier cycling stage is one of the most spectacular and challenging triathlon experiences, with climbs that will test your legs and technical descents that will raise your pulse. Even though the road is closed to traffic, your safety depends primarily on your attention and behavior.

  1. Essential rules on the course
  • The road is closed to traffic, but vehicles may enter from guesthouse, hotel, or restaurant driveways. Keep to the right-hand side of the road and obey traffic rules.
  • Drafting is forbidden for all participants (including relay teams).
  • Cutting the course is strictly prohibited and will result in penalties or disqualification.
  • Avoid dangerous behaviors: inside overtakes, crossing the center line, sudden braking in groups.
  1. Equipment preparation
  • Before the race, check brakes, gears, and tire pressure.
  • Make sure all bolts are tight and the chain is properly lubricated.
  • Your helmet must be certified, fit snugly, and be fastened at all times during the segment.
  • A road bike is recommended; triathlon bikes are allowed, but use aerobars with extreme caution, especially on technical descents.
  1. Road conditions
  • The course has sections of new asphalt, but also defects (cracks, potholes, bumps), especially between Valea cu Pești and Cumpăna.
  • Pay extra attention in turns and on sections with gravel, sand, or wet areas.
  • Be ready to slow down on descents and in crowded areas such as hydration points.
  1. Race technique and behavior
  • Maintain a straight line and avoid sudden movements.
  • When overtaking, check behind you and leave enough space before returning to the right.
  • On descents, keep your hands on the brakes, eyes forward, and weight balanced on the bike.
  • The use of phones, action cameras, or other distracting devices while riding is not allowed.
  1. In case of an incident
  • If you get a flat or have a mechanical issue, stop safely on the side of the road.
  • If you feel extreme fatigue, dizziness, or pain, stop the race and seek medical help.

Transfier is about challenge and the beauty of the route, but no second gained is worth an unnecessary risk. Ride smart, enjoy the scenery, and reach T2 safely.

Safety Tips for RUNNING

The running stage of Transfier is the final part of the race, where physical endurance meets mental strength. After swimming and cycling, your body will be taxed, so paying attention to its signals is essential.

  1. Protect yourself from heat and sun
  • The race often takes place during the hottest hours. Wear light, breathable clothing, apply sunscreen, and use a cap or visor.
  • Hydrate regularly at aid stations. If necessary, slow down or walk a few steps to drink water or isotonic drinks.
  1. Energy and pace management
  • Set a realistic pace from the first few hundred meters. It’s easy to start too fast after transition, but this can cause early exhaustion.
  • Recognize signs of dehydration, overheating, or low energy (dizziness, chills, cramps). Act immediately: stop at an aid station, cool down, drink fluids, and take in calories.
  • If you’re low on calories, take gels or energy drinks—only those you’ve tested in training.
  1. Footwear and gear
  • Use well-fitted running shoes you’ve already tested to avoid blisters or pain.
  • If you use elastic laces or quick-lace systems, practice with them before race day.
  • Choose technical socks that prevent moisture build-up and chafing.
  1. Technique and behavior on the course
  • Keep shoulders relaxed, arms at about 90°, without clenching fists.
  • Be mindful of other runners: overtake on the left, signal verbally when passing, and follow officials’ instructions.
  • In crowded course areas, adjust your pace to avoid contact with other runners.
  1. Specific training
  • Include runs after bike workouts (“brick sessions”) to get used to the specific T2 transition feeling.
  • Train in hot conditions so your body is ready for race-day temperatures.
  1. After the finish line
  • Keep walking for 5–10 minutes after you finish to allow your body to gradually recover.
  • Hydrate and eat carbohydrate- and protein-rich foods for recovery.
  • Even the next day, a light walk or relaxing swim will help your recovery.

Running at Transfier isn’t just about the last kilometers—it’s about managing your resources so the finish is a moment of joy, not survival. Run smart and safe—the finish line is waiting for you.

Safety Tips for WILDLIFE

Transfier takes place in the heart of the Făgăraș Mountains—a spectacular, wild area rich in natural beauty. This also means there’s a chance you might encounter wildlife, most often bears. Understanding their behavior and reacting correctly can be the difference between a great story and a dangerous situation.

If you see a bear at a distance

  • Stay calm—don’t panic or run.
  • Give it space—retreat slowly, making a wide detour.
  • Don’t approach—no matter how spectacular the moment, don’t get closer for photos or “curiosity.”

If the bear is NOT aware of you

  • Retreat slowly, avoiding sudden movements or loud noises.
  • Increase distance without drawing attention.

If the bear IS aware of you

  • Stay calm and move slowly.
  • Identify yourself—speak in a firm voice to show you’re human.
  • Don’t run—sudden movement can trigger predatory instinct.
  • Retreat slowly, keeping eye contact without turning your back.
  • Appear larger—raise your arms, lift your bike, or open your jacket; stand with other participants to look like a group.

If the bear approaches

  • Stand your ground, staying calm.
  • Make noise—clap, shout, use a whistle.
  • Drop your bike or other objects to distract it.
  • Use bear spray if within 6–9 meters, aiming at the bear’s face and adjusting for wind direction.

If you see a bear by the roadside

  • Avoid stopping—it needs peace to feed and survive.
  • Don’t feed it or throw anything at it.
  • If you must stop, keep your distance and don’t leave food or objects that may attract it.

If a bear comes close

  • Stop and assess its behavior.
  • If defensive (feeling threatened): speak calmly, back away slowly.
  • If it keeps approaching, use bear spray.
  • If it attacks and makes contact, play dead: lie on your stomach, protect your neck with your hands, and stay still.
  • If non-defensive (curious or predatory): shout, make yourself big, throw objects, and intimidate it.
  • If it attacks, fight back with anything you have.

Bear spray—recommended gear

  • Keep it accessible and learn to use it before the race.
  • Its effectiveness depends on distance, wind, rain, and temperature.

Don’t use it preventively—only in imminent danger.

Safety Tips for BEGINNERS

If you’re new to triathlon or it’s your first time at Transfier, these tips can help make your experience safer and more enjoyable:

  • Consult a doctor before starting a training program, especially if you’re new to intense physical activity.
  • Listen to your body and keep a comfortable pace—don’t push just to keep up with others.
  • Follow event rules, especially safety-related ones—they’re there to protect your health.
  • Keep a positive attitude—your mindset can help you get through difficult moments, especially when fatigue sets in.
  • Join a swimming, cycling, or running group—you’ll get useful tips and support from other athletes.
  • If you come to the event alone, carry an emergency contact number with you.
  • Don’t experiment on race day—use only drinks, food, and gear you’ve tested in training.
  • Learn multiple swim strokes—in open water, alternatives like side stroke, breaststroke, or backstroke can save you if you get tired.