Just a gorgeous course overall. Swim was fine, although it was quite crowded. Everyone tries to stay "on the cable" and so there was no break from swimming into people. … MORE
Just a gorgeous course overall. Swim was fine, although it was quite crowded. Everyone tries to stay “on the cable” and so there was no break from swimming into people. The bike was tough. Started out great with a steady climb then an awesome downhill, but last 30 miles of the loop seemed like all up. I went in undertrained and cocky and met my match here. Finished the first 54mi loop and had to call it a day because my legs were just no longer functioning. Went out on the run just to see how my legs would feel. Confirmed suspicions that there was no way I was running 26.2 even if I was able to suffer through that second bike loop. Did a 6 mile run of shame and called it a day. Several lessons learned here. Although this would have been my 3rd Ironman, I failed to respect the distance. I thought I could suffer through the bike just to get to the run and then pull this one out but zero bike training and only run training got me exactly what I deserved, a DNF. I know I’m in the minority here of people who would attempt an Ironman on little to no training but if you’re even considering it, don’t. At least not this race. This bike course is unforgiving and I underestimated the elevation I would have to cover. For all other sane, disciplined triathletes, you’ll love this race. It’s picturesque and the logistics are great. Organization was a little lacking in my opinion. Run and Bike Special Needs bag drop-offs were not located at convenient places and poorly (in some cases incorrectly) communicated. But despite some small organization gripes, this was a great race and I’m deeply disappointed in myself for not finishing. I’ll likely be back in a year or two to redeem myself.
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Beautiful Race, Wish I Finished
Just a gorgeous course overall. Swim was fine, although it was quite crowded. Everyone tries to stay "on the cable" and so there was no break from swimming into people. … MORE
Just a gorgeous course overall. Swim was fine, although it was quite crowded. Everyone tries to stay “on the cable” and so there was no break from swimming into people. The bike was tough. Started out great with a steady climb then an awesome downhill, but last 30 miles of the loop seemed like all up. I went in undertrained and cocky and met my match here. Finished the first 54mi loop and had to call it a day because my legs were just no longer functioning. Went out on the run just to see how my legs would feel. Confirmed suspicions that there was no way I was running 26.2 even if I was able to suffer through that second bike loop. Did a 6 mile run of shame and called it a day. Several lessons learned here. Although this would have been my 3rd Ironman, I failed to respect the distance. I thought I could suffer through the bike just to get to the run and then pull this one out but zero bike training and only run training got me exactly what I deserved, a DNF. I know I’m in the minority here of people who would attempt an Ironman on little to no training but if you’re even considering it, don’t. At least not this race. This bike course is unforgiving and I underestimated the elevation I would have to cover. For all other sane, disciplined triathletes, you’ll love this race. It’s picturesque and the logistics are great. Organization was a little lacking in my opinion. Run and Bike Special Needs bag drop-offs were not located at convenient places and poorly (in some cases incorrectly) communicated. But despite some small organization gripes, this was a great race and I’m deeply disappointed in myself for not finishing. I’ll likely be back in a year or two to redeem myself.
Best Event I've Ever Done (...so far!)
Bucket list item checked! My first IRONMAN - This race was truly amazing! The support of the community, volunteers, fans - nothing could have been better! This is one I'll … MORE
Bucket list item checked! My first IRONMAN – This race was truly amazing! The support of the community, volunteers, fans – nothing could have been better! This is one I’ll be doing again, for sure!
Iconic Placid doesn’t disappoint
+ Breathtaking scenery Spectacular finish Olympic- speed skating arena, Olympic torch Spectators/Volunteers are phenomenal & make a day out of it Tips Book hotel early (pricey, we paid > $400/night … MORE
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Breathtaking scenery
Spectacular finish Olympic- speed skating arena, Olympic torch
Spectators/Volunteers are phenomenal & make a day out of it
Tips
Book hotel early (pricey, we paid > $400/night for mediocre lodging)
Chilly T1 and loop 1 of bike course (We experience hail around mile 30). Disposable biking sleeves/raincoat for the first loop of the bike course will help you stay warm.