The origin of the Tuscan Triathlon remains a mystery. However, it contains the elements of the modern day triathlon: three events, taken in succession, to provide a rigorous athletic challenge. Training for such events requires spending equal amounts of time at each event to be proficient enough that by combining the events, one can maintain a competitive edge, although some people enter such races merely for the fun of it and just to finish. In either case, some amount of training should occur in order to appreciate the effort required and to understand the transition between events. In competitive races sometimes the transitions can make the difference between winning or just placing in your age group.

   The other consideration for the Tuscan Triathlon is the terrain and equipment. The challenge of the terrain is the hills and the distraction of the beauty of the surrounding landscape and valleys. The roadway on which the race takes place is narrow with blind curves, requiring constant attention to where one is on the racecourse and of occasional cars-the course is not closed to traffic. However, the local custom is for drivers to beep their horn as they approach the turns to advise of their presence, thus if you happen to be taking in the beauty of the surroundings, or in transition between events, the sound will warn you to get out of the way. The hills will provide a challenge, even for the best runners. There is an equal amount of up and down sections, although the course is an out and back with the first section mostly up the mountain and the return is mostly down.

   The equipment needed is fairly standard. For the running portion, a good pair of running shoes is essential; especially that provide cushioning for the downhill runs, yet light enough to allow a quick jump to the shoulder to avoid a car. Brightly colored running shorts and top not only look good, but add to one’s visibility on the road. Female participants take note: male drivers not accustomed to seeing half naked women running on the roads around Tuscany, will stare until the last moment and then try to regain control of their car. For the flower picking segment, which occurs at various points along the course, all one needs to know is a fast and efficient motion to snap the stem on the move without being slowed by a stubborn stalk that won’t break. The rules require picking a small bouquet of a variety of flowers. Generally there are enough varieties to accomplish this, but if you are trying to be competitive it is advisable not to stop to smell them. However, if you are out to just finish then the ginestra are highly recommended for their sweet fragrance. The third event is somewhat more complicated and requires more specialized equipment.

   For the third segment, the contestant must take at least 20 photographs of various landscapes, churches, artifacts, houses, and any other points of interest along the course. This part requires an automatic camera using high-speed film to capture the beautiful essence of the Tuscany region as you are running. However, if you cannot afford a fully automatic camera, any good camera will do, but you may have to stop too long to get the shot. Again, for those who are out just for fun and to just finish, this is not a problem. Several cautions are in order during this activity. First, don’t stand in the middle of the road to take a shot. Second, make sure you have enough pictures on the roll to complete the event. Third, make sure you know how to operate the camera properly. Best to try it out before the event than to discover during the event, you are not sure how to use all the buttons. Lastly, try not to sweat too much on the camera, it may affect its proper functioning. It’s ok to carry it in a waterproof pouch or bag.

   Because of the unique characteristics of this triathlon, attention must be paid to the transitions. Each transition, flower picking to picture taking; picture taking to flower picking, needs to be accomplished with quickness and dexterity, at least for those serious competitors. Dropping a flower while taking a picture wastes time by having to pick it up again. A word of caution on the flower picking portion, be careful not to try to pick flowers in a hurry that are surrounded by nettles. Fiddling with the camera while holding flowers can be cumbersome and the cardinal sin, other than running out of film, is to drop the camera The elite triathletes are able to operate the camera with one hand, while on the run. For the rest of the athletes, who haven’t mastered this technique, coming to a short, complete stop, will generally produce the required results. The use of a wristband on the camera is allowed.

   While most people enter triathlons as individual participants, many allow teams to enter. This usually is comprised of a second team member, who completes the entire event, and is allowed to share in the various responsibilities as the race progresses. The second team member can hold the flowers as they are picked by the first team member and hold the camera, until the first team member is ready to shoot. While this may simplify the first team member’s ability to quickly complete each segment, the handoff to the second team member becomes another critical step and at times may create an additional liability in successfully completing the event. The second team member must at all times be vigilant to the first team members actions and needs. The second member should not be trying to view the wonderful vistas along the course or be caught up in the beauty of the roadside flowers. And at no time should they be talking with other participants, no matter how beautiful the sun on the valley looks. An experienced second team member is a joy to have.

   The serious triathlete practices all the segments to a high level of proficiency. For the not so serious triathlete, practicing at least to be comfortable with each segment will at least allow you to finish the race and still have energy for the post-race party. Of course it’s nice to finish high in the standings, but the real results won’t be known until the pictures are developed.