On Saturday, hundreds arrived at the New York Hilton in midtown Manhattan to receive information about the Verizon New York City Triathlon, owned and produced by Life Time.

“Definitely very exciting. A little bit nervous because I really have no idea how it’s going to shake out," said David Zizelski, who will be participating for the first time. "It’s going to be hot, so definitely worried about that front a little."

It’s serious heat prompting officials to shorten Sunday's bike and running portions. They say it was a difficult decision to make, but safety is a priority.

The biking portion has been cut in half from 24.8 miles to 12.4 miles, and the running portion has been cut from 6.2 miles to 2.5 miles.

In addition to shortening the race, officials will be ready to keep athletes cool.

“We’ve got ample aid stations on course serving both water and Gatorade endurance formula. We have Gatorade gels on course. Medical personnel. Spray stations and misting stations and we’ll be handing out iced towels,” said Associate Marketing Director for Life Time Nicole Bostick.

Ahead of the race, participants said they had worked hard to prepare. Many are staying optimistic despite the change.

“I would say [I am] a little disappointed that they shortened the course," said returning athlete Karyn Rodus. "But I completely understand it’s a safety thing. So I’m still excited. It’s the only race you can jump in the Hudson. It’s just going to be a fun day."

The course will take racers into the Hudson River, on bikes along a traffic-free West Side Highway and through Central Park. As part of the exciting weekend, Life Time also hosted a children's race for the first time, in partnership with the City Parks Foundation. Isaiah Ross, 13, was the first to cross the finish line Saturday.

“I’m feeling good. I’m feeling proud of myself. I just came first place in this. I knew I would come in first-place for this because I had a lot of time to prepare. So I was really ready for this,” Ross said.

Among the 2,400 racers expected Sunday, there are people from more than 44 different states and 30 different countries. The ages ranged from 14 years old to 81 years old.