Florida 70.3...anyone do it?

mpalios

All, I tried to search on th forum, and nothing showed up (maybe operator error).  Anyone on the team done this race?  I'm tentatively targetting it this May.

Hilly bike?  Boring run?  Draft-fest?

Thanks for any feedback!

Mike

trijedi

 I did Orlando's 70.3 in 2010 before being part of EN.

The swim is in a lake. I don't think the water has ever been cool enough for wetsuits which makes logistics simpler. Although you can't swim at the venue for practice, there are some nice lakes in Orlando for swimming if you arrive a few days early.

The ride is basically flat although some folks from FL say it has some hills. There were some draft packs. Some people were penalized. You can avoid drafting without too much trouble. The roads were silky smooth for the most part.

The run was a triple loop nightmare for me. It was hot and humid. Although I trained midday to try to acclimate, there is nothing in Southern California that matches the high humidity and heat of Florida. The course is a mix of pavement and grass with not that much shade. The areas around the aid stations turn muddy. I couldn't figure out why someone advised wearing older shoes but that is why.

I found the bike course especially fun. The humidity can make the run challenging.

The race was well run. I don't recall any snafus like running out of water. The roads were clear of traffic.

I would do it again.

Good luck,

Rubin

Paul Hough

I did the race in 2007, 2008 and 2009. In each, I had an early start so saw little drafting until the last 15 miles. Then there were indeed some packs. In 2009, I was amazed as a large pack blew by me and a ref came up from behind as the pack was going down the street. I was salivating at the thought of justice, but the ref did NOTHING...apparently just out enjoying the motorcycle ride. Go figure.

There are a few minor hills in the center of the single loop, only one which requires some people to stand. The first and last third of the race are flat. Expect to face the wind in the final third.

As Rubin stated...the run is horrific...the 7th level of hell in Dante's inferno. Even by Florida standards this is a miserable run. Because 2/3s of each loop is on grass along a scenic ditch, with no wind and no shade, the heat and humidity are concentrated. They mow the grass before the race, but anticipate running in one of two ruts on the way. There is no Disney magic along this course...it simply sucks and you must be ready for the challenge. Also...the later your starting wave, the worse it is going to be as the day heats up. In 2007, I needed 2 IV bags to come back to life. In 2009, this became the only race that has ever made me puke...about 15 minutes after I finished. Oh yeah, I intend to race it again!