500 yard Swim: Quick and easy, the ocean swim parallels the beach. The average water temperature is 64 degrees. Wetsuits are optional but getting them off may negate any time advantages of wearing one.

6 Mile Bike: The course is very fast and nearly flat (with the exception of one decent-sized hill near the Four Seasons Biltmore). Carry the water you need, as this out-and-back course goes so quickly there's no time for a water station.

Obey all traffic laws – this is an open course. Please note that event volunteers are not able to disrupt or instruct the flow of traffic. Do not take instruction regarding your right-of-way from anyone other than a City Police officer or California Highway Patrol officer.

2 Mile Run: One mile out, one mile back – it's that simple. You can get water at mile one if you dare to slow down.