From what I heard, too many injuries on the stairs and LifeTime owned them but no longer have an office in Phoenix.

The transition from swim to bike was either over grass or sidewalk and was well marked. I initially was not a fan of this but after competing in the half, I think this was a good move. And I was never was a fan of the stairs in the first place. So yea, unfortunately, more time swimming into the sun.

According to the Event Schedule, there will be a practice swim. I am sure it will be clearly marked and easy to get in and out of the water.