_ The 19th Annual Osprey Triathlon:

The Osprey Sprint Triathlon is a great event for novices as well as veterns. The event starts with a 1/2 mile swim in the Chintoteague Bay, 15 mile scenic bike ride on flat land (there's one hill) and a 3.1 mile flat out and back run. The Maryland Coastal Bays Program hosts this race every year as a fundraiser to protect the bays behind Ocean City, Maryland and Assateague Island. There is also a relay option where athletes can join a team: one person swims, another bikes, and the third person runs.

Event details and schedule

This event starts a 9 am with a swim, so it is important that you arrive no later than 8:30 for the race director's instructions. The Osprey is limited to 500 racers which keeps it fun and safe. Having both a safe and fun race is paramount to who we are.

Race entry exchanges - Exchanges or transfers of race entry to other non-registered athletes are permitted up to a week before the race and there will be a $10 fee. Unfortunately, we do not allow refunds or transfers for the following year.

Registration Packets may be picked up on Friday, September 28th from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Hooters Restaurant located in West Ocean City or Saturday, September 30th from 6:30 a.m. until 8 a.m. under the pavilion in Public Landing. ALL ATHLETES MUST SHOW POSITIVE I.D., (driver's license, passport, etc.) to receive their packet. Race day check-in and body marking will be from 6:30 a.m. until 8 a.m. at the staging area at Public Landing. Early check-in is advised, as the race will start at 9 a.m. sharp! The Course/Race Review meeting will be Saturday morning in the transition area at 8:40 a.m.

There will be volunteers who will show you where to park.

For the swim wet suits are optional, it's a personal preference and it would be prudent for you to check water temperatures closer to the date of this event.

Lodging - There are several Ocean City hotels that graciously sponsored our event and offer discounts to participants desiring overnight accommodations. Ocean City is 20 miles from Public Landing. The Francis Scott Key Resort offers discounted rooms. Their number is 1-800-213-0088. The Boardwalk Hotel Group is also offering discounted accommodations at the Days Inn on 23rd street, call 1-800-926-1122. There are also a few rooms available at the Mansion House Bed & Breakfast which is directly at the race site, they book up fast so make your plans early!  For reservation information call 410-632-3189.  In order to receive your discount you must let them know you are with the Maryland Coastal Bays Osprey Triathlon.

If you have any questions about the race or your application or need furthur information please contact Sandi Smith at 410-213-2297 ext. 106 or email at [email protected]. You may also want to check out the webpage at www.mdcoastalbays.org/osprey-triathlon for information. See you race weekend. Good Luck!!