Stroke and Stride Swim-Run Series

Join a timed swim-run series in Minnesota built for athletes of all levels. Experience open water swimming, transition into a 5K run, and take part in a structured, supportive environment designed for both training and race-style performance.

June 9, 2026
June 23, 2026
July 7, 2026
July 21, 2026
August 4, 2026
August 18, 2026

Triathlon Training Sessions with Open Water Swim and Run

Stroke and Stride is a chip-timed swim-run series at Turtle Lake for athletes preparing for triathlon season or looking to compete in a swim/run format.

These sessions combine open water swimming with a 5K run, helping participants build confidence, improve technique, and experience race-day conditions in a controlled environment. Each session includes an 800-yard swim (or two loops totaling 1600 yards) followed by a 3.1-mile run.

With multiple dates from June through August, this series supports beginners and experienced athletes looking to stay consistent, track progress, or compete in a swim-run format without a bike.

Print and mail Registration Form

Triathlon Training Sessions: What to Expect

Stroke and Stride offers structured triathlon race sessions designed to help athletes practice open water swimming and running in a realistic, low-pressure environment.

This swim-run format allows participants to build confidence, improve technique, and prepare for race-day conditions without the intensity of an official triathlon.

Convenient metro location in Minnesota
Free parking available near the event site
Weekly evening sessions
Chip-timed swim-run format (results included)
800-yard open water swimming at Turtle Lake
Option to complete two loops (1600 yards total)
3.1-mile run immediately following the swimming (brick format)
Time trial format to track performance
Fully supported open water swimming and run courses
Secure transition area
Ideal for beginners building open water confidence
Valuable for experienced athletes seeking performance tracking
Part of a multi-session summer swim-run race series (June–August)
Flexible registration: single sessions or full series
Open to all skill levels

Athlete and Spectator Parking Areas

True for All MMR Events

All ages and ability levels are welcome

Time trial format with self-seeded starts

Wear your timing chip on your LEFT ankle for triathlons.

Race day registration available (cash or check only)

Upon registration, you agree to the MMR Race Policies.

Women's shirts are fitted and run small; men's are generously sized. Registrations 2 weeks or less from event will receive shirt in the mail 3-4 weeks after race and are not guaranteed requested shirt size; if the requested size is unavailable, the next available size most closely matching the requested size will be substituted.

Price increase reflects the increased cost of shirts without a volume discount and the cost of shipping shirt post-race

Results provided by www.frontrunnerusa.com.

Professional photographer will be on site for every race at no additional cost of the participants. Our photographer will make every effort to capture shots of each athlete, but we cannot guarantee that every athlete will be photographed.

10% military discount | Fill out paper registration and include check less 10%

Training Location: Turtle Lake, Minnesota

4979 Hodgson Rd, Shoreview, MN 55126

Open water swim training sessions take place at Turtle Lake Park in Shoreview, Minnesota, offering a controlled environment ideal for triathlon training and swim-run practice.

Build Confidence, Improve Performance, and Train for Your Next Triathlon

Stroke and Stride is designed for athletes who want more than a training plan—it’s for those who need real triathlon training sessions in a structured, supportive environment.

Whether you're new to open water swim training or looking to improve your performance, these swim-run sessions help you practice transitions, build endurance, and gain confidence ahead of race day.

With a consistent training format and a motivating community, you can track your progress, stay accountable, and prepare effectively for your next triathlon without the pressure of a full competition.

¡Train with confidence, race with purpose!

Packet Pick-up

5:00 pm-5:45 pm Each Tuesday Event Date
Turtle Lake Park, Shoreview

Your packet will include your chip and running bib.

Schedule

5:00pm | Park and parking lots open

5:45pm | Packet pick-up

6:00pm | Athletes begin swim

7:30pm | Event ends

FAQ

Is Stroke & Stride an official race?
No — Stroke & Stride is a simulated race training session. It is chip-timed and results are provided, but the goal is training, confidence, and preparation.
What is the format?
Each session includes a 500-yard open-water swim followed immediately by a 3.1-mile run (5K).
How does the swim start?
The swim start is a self-seeded time trial. Athletes enter the water one at a time, approximately every 3–5 seconds. Please line up based on your expected pace, with faster swimmers toward the front and slower swimmers toward the back, so everyone has a safe and comfortable start.
Do I need to wear a swim cap?
Yes. A bright-colored swim cap is required for all athletes. This helps our lifeguards and safety team spot swimmers more easily in the water.
Is the run supported?
Yes. A water stop will be available at the turnaround, with water provided in small cups.
What should I wear?
Wear whatever you plan to race in. Stroke & Stride is designed to simulate race-day conditions, so this is a great opportunity to test your gear and see what feels best.
Who is this for?
Everyone! It’s ideal for beginners building open-water confidence, and also great for experienced athletes looking for a fitness benchmark during the season.
Do I have to do all 6 sessions?
No. Athletes can register for the full series or select 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 or all sessions. Discounts apply the more sessions you book.
Can I wear a wetsuit?
Yes. Wetsuits are welcome and encouraged for newer athletes.
What if I’m nervous or not fast?
That’s exactly why this exists. Stroke & Stride is designed to be welcoming, supportive, and beginner-friendly.
Will there be lifeguards/safety support?
Yes — safety support will be on-site, and athletes will be monitored throughout the swim.
Do I need a triathlon bike?
Nope! This is a swim/run event — no bike required.
Will I get a time/result?
Yes — this is chip-timed and results will be posted.
How is this different from a triathlon training plan?
A training plan tells you what to do—Stroke & Stride lets you practice it. These sessions provide real triathlon training experience, including open water swim and run transitions.
Are these sessions good for first-time triathlon athletes?
Yes. These sessions are designed for beginner triathlon training, especially for those who want to gain confidence in open water swimming and race-day preparation.
Can I use these sessions to improve my race performance?
Absolutely. These structured triathlon training sessions help you measure progress, improve pacing, and practice transitions in a realistic environment.