A common part of working with athletes is helping them build a race schedule. Some athletes are self-sufficent in this area. Some need help.
Here’s a little blog about how to go about it.
Big Rocks First
Not sure if you have heard of this concept but if you want to fill a jar up, the best way is to do it is to place the big rocks in first and then fill the gaps with smaller rocks and then you can finish it with sand. If you fill your jar with small stuff there’s no room fo rteh big things.
The same concept applies to building a race schedule. Big rocks first. What’s your major goal? An Ironman ? A World Championship ? Qualifying for a Championship ? Put that in first. That is your major piece of work that everything points to. Your A Race (or races if its a qualifying series)
Next Step - B Races
What races will support that major goal and help you prepare for it. If its an Ironman I would like you to give it a support structure of 2-3 × 70.3’s. It will help you develop the skills needed in long course racing like pacing and nutrition. It will also expose you to what mightt be your competition. To get a glimpse of where you are at against them.
Last Step - C Races
Local low cost racing. Hit the club events. Get some short course sprints or standard distance races in. They are good fun. You won’t have to put a big dent in your training build for them as you will only need a short drop off taper. They also help you develop your racing skills and do a lot to help manage the pressure of racing.
That’s it
Big Rock’s first. B Races that support the major goal next. Finally, C Races that are non-specific but fun and develop racing skills broadly.
Set your budget. Follow it. Dont make your racing a stress. Plan and execute.