Racine or another HIM around that time?

rlh2000

Starting to plan my 2014 season.  I'm planning on doing either Eagleman or Kansas 70.3 in early June and IM Chattanooga in late September as my 2 A races, but looking for another HIM to do somewhere along the way as more of a B race (I think one of my big mistakes this year was not racing at all besides IMWI). Racine seems like a good choice as its close to Chicago, big EN presence, and good timing, but I keep hearing complaints about road quality. How bad is it? Anyone want to sell me/dissuade me on Racine? Any other good midwest races around that time? I've done Door County and Steelhead before, loved them both but would rather try new races than repeat. Thanks folks!

Coach Patrick

Rachel, the Team seems to be pushing for Door County...stay tuned!!

MattAaronson

Personally I love Racine. I did it in 2011 and 2012 and the only issue was that it was hot. In 2011 it was brutally hot -- heat index well over 100. In 2012 it was "only" low 90s. But hey, you want to do a half-iron in July, that's what you'll probably get. Kansas should give you good practice for the heat (this year Kansas wasn't too bad but in 2012 it was brutal, and no shade on that run). Some people complain that the Racine bike course roads are in rough shape, but really it is only the first and last few miles (although when roads are rough at mile 53-56 you WILL remember it). The Racine swim in 2011 and 2012 was beautiful but this year the water was rougher. The run is a mostly un-shaded double out-and-back, the first half of which is by the lake and with nice views and potentially a cooling breeze, and the second half is on residential streets. Overall the race is very well-executed and attracts a large and high-caliber pro and AG field, but also a lot of beginners and first-timers. If you get an overcast and cooler day it is a course, like Steelhead, that can be a huge PB. But the weather - in particular the heat - is the wildcard.