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Race Selection

new2703new2703
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I know I've asked this before but this time its different.  Question is should I gear all my IM races towards the ironman brand or try some of the others.  Now for a little background and goals.

Background:  Started training for Tris in Nov of 2011 after a 20 year lay off and a substantial weight gain.  Started with EN at end of January 2012.  Originally set out on this journey to get in shape but the competitor in me wanted more.  So with the blessing of the family decided to do IM distance races with the eventual goal of qualifying for Kona.  This is what brought me to EN.  Is it a lofty goal? yes.  Am I capable of achieving this goal?   YES!!!!!

Goal:  To eventually qualify for Kona.  I am realistic and know that this will not happen over night and that it will take time.

Question:  Do I continue to focus on IM branded races or not really worry about it until feel ready?  Thoughts?

Comments

  • gambgamb
    Personally, I wouldn't worry about it until you think you have the speed to KQ. It's racing 140.6 no matter which company you go through. I have never raced an IM branded event. Was going to do Augusta this year but it sold out in June but quite frankly I'm not worried about it. Saves a few pennies also.

    If I had Kona speed I'd have a different outlook I'm sure
  • Al TruscottAl Truscott
    Random thoughts on the plus/minus of WTC vs Brand X...
    - the cost differential is really not that much, after considering you're paying the same for travel, lodging, coaching, bike, wetsuit, gym/pool fees, carbon aero accessories, nutrition, etc.etc.
    - I'm a misery loves company kinda guy. I don't want to be running 26.2 or biking 112 all by my lonesome. So a race with fewer than, maybe 750 IMparticipants risks making for a desolate run.
    - There are some races/places which are non-WTC I'd really like to do...Challenge Roth ( also Penticton which I've done x3;The best North American course IMO), Swissman/norseman for the insanity of it, etc.
    - WTC swims have gotten too crowded for safety and real racing...this may change with the new start systems being tried, but that also has an impact on those racing for podium/KQ.
    - there is a lot of line standing, waiting around, and excess admin stuff in the giant WTC Races...gets in the way of just enjoying the experience.
    - If you are not within 3-5 places of the "Bubble", then your Kona goal is still a few years and a lotta work and committment away. The bubble begins about 3-5 places below the # of slots in your AG. EG, if there are five slots in your AG, and you are not finishing in the top ten, you probably should be thinking about the above type of things, rather than worrying about whether you'll miss out on a chance at Kona.
  • new2703new2703
    Thanks guys. @Al. I realize that an opportunity to race for Kona slot is a couple years away. Wasn't thinking about IM in terms of Kona at this point. Was more thinking about costs. Problem is I'm not familiar with other non branded races and I completely enjoyed my sole IM branded experience
  • new2703new2703
    Sorry guess a better way to ask the question is if you're not worried about Kona are there other IM races to consider.
  • Paul HoughPaul Hough
    John - wait and see what WTC announces later this month about a new IM in TN, SC, or NC. That would reduce your travel costs and give you the hoopla of an IM brand. I'm with Al on the benefits of WTC over Brand X. Apart from B2B and Vineman Full, there aren't any 140.6s in the states that have any crowd factor. But if you are into the loneliness of the long distance runner, then sign up for an HITS full.
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