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Ironman New Jersey - US Champs; Who is in and where are you staying?

I'm considering this race as one of my 2012 options (yes, I know the cost), but the logistics are daunting.  I'm curious who's in and whether you think it's better to stay on the New Jersey side or New York side.   It seems the New Jersey side would be closer to everything except the finish, and much cheaper too.  But how do you get from the finish back to T2 to collect your bike?   Also, does anyone have a clue which side the expo/check-in will be on?   And for those from the area, how hilly is the bike course?  The elevation profile looked fairly flat but I've read a few comments that it is hilly.  

Comments

  • Paul,

    I might do the race in 2012 but I'm thinking about giving IMLP another shot. Staying in NJ is cheaper but if you want to spend time in NYC than its just better to get a place in the city. There are plenty of "budget" options around the city if you shop around on travel websites.

    Not sure how the bike collection is going to work after the race but supposedly you need to take a ferry over and pick it up. No idea where the expo will be located.

    The bike course is hilly but nothing too difficult. The most challenging hill is the "State Line" hill which is around 5-7% and doesn't last too long. It would still be nice to have a PM though as there are a fair number of false flats along the course. As a point of reference, I find it to be a lot easier than the IMLP course.

    The beginning of the run course (in NJ) has the potential to be difficult if they go far enough south on River Road. There are some steep hills on the road. Once you hit the George Washington bridge it will flat/downhill until you turn east to get to Broadway. Run shouldn't be too difficult.

    The most interesting part will be the walk/run from the swim to T1. Its either going to be a long walk up a steep flight of stairs or a winding path to the top of the cliff. Might be the most difficult part of the day for some people.
  • Paul,

    I am doing it. I will stay in Jersey at least for the night before. I might stay in NYC or elsewhere after. I have family in the area so I am not so concerned about where to stay until the night before. That sleep will not be great anyway.

    I think it will be cool to do the inagural NJ/NYC especially as US champ. Maybe more Kona slots. Also swim is with the current so it could be fast in the water. Regardless of how flat the bike and run course is this will be a sufferfest as NY in August is hot and sticky.

    Join Me!

    Thanks,

    Jon

  • Brandon - I've been to Manhattan a couple of times before...don't plan on too much sightseeing, just wondering which side it would be best to stay, especially Saturday night.

    Jon - hot and humid is par for the course in Tampa. NYC won't even approach what I deal with.
  • Paul-- I'm in, but I will be staying at home as I live in NJ about 40 mins from swim start... I would think that staying on the NJ side will be easier and cheaper. I have no idea where the expo will be. It should be the easiest swim in the history of the Ironman. Gonna be a hot sufferfest that will be totally logistically screwed up... I can't wait! join me.
  • I would stay in NJ.  Too difficult getting there from NYC.  ESPECIALLY for people who get a hotel room in midtown.

     

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