New Jersey State Triathlon officials will be making changes to its schedule to keep competitors safe due to excessive heat conditions.

Thousands are expected to participate in the annual triathlon this weekend in at Mercer County Park in West Windsor.

About 3,500 participants are expected to compete in different competitions: running, biking and swimming. Another 6,500 spectators are also expected to attend.

Changes to the event include:

Saturday: Running portion shortened to two miles.
Sunday: Swimming, bicycle and running portions shortened.
Both days have a post time of 7:30 a.m.

“We really are taking that into consideration here. We realize people are upset because they say 'We want to do it,’” says Race Director Michele Redrow. “But there's a certain point it is way too important for the safety of the athletes and the volunteers. We have over 1,600 volunteers. They're out here from 4:45 a.m. to noon."

Redrow says she will be working closely with the EMTs on hand to ensure safety.

Officials say that the triathlon could still be postponed or canceled right up to post time if they feel there is a serious health risk to the athletes.