Question:

    Many races publish the results of their races on line.  You could gather thousands of results at one shot.  You will find my name on results from USMC marathon, Columbus (OH) marathon, Cincinnati(OH) marathon and Dublin (IE) marathon as well as a number of shorter races. — Joseph E. Meehan 26 + 6 = 1  It’s Irish Math

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi there, I’m interested in gathering race time statistics, so that I can analyze them. If the races you have participated in post the results to a website, please list them here. I’m looking for as many as I can, but limited to the following types of races: – 5K – 10K – Half marathon – Marathon A further restriction is that you can’t have run this distance as part of a triathlon, or any other event where the running is just one part. If I get enough websites, especially American, European, and generally international ones, I will make the results available. Thanks, Richard Rogers

Response:

Richard Rogers

The architect?

Response:

Hi there, I’m interested in gathering race time statistics, so that I can analyze them. If the races you have participated in post the results to a website, please list them here. I’m looking for as many as I can, but limited to the following types of races: – 5K – 10K – Half marathon – Marathon A further restriction is that you can’t have run this distance as part of a triathlon, or any other event where the running is just one part. If I get enough websites, especially American, European, and generally international ones, I will make the results available. Thanks, Richard Rogers

Response:

Question:

Doing my first tri – A sprint – looking to get a wet suit – not looking to spend much but would like some comfort.  REI has a basic shorty around 70 $.   Also I have heard that the suit MAY help in providing added flotation ??? any info ? thanks

Response:

Doing my first tri – A sprint – looking to get a wet suit – not looking to spend much but would like some comfort.  REI has a basic shorty around 70 $. Also I have heard that the suit MAY help in providing added flotation ??? any info ? thanks

  Whatever you purchase make sure that it is a suit designed specifically for triathlon. In my first couple of tris I tried a farmer John and then a shorty designed for scuba. Other newbies show up with surfer suits, etc. They just don’t work.

Response:

I would not wear a wet suit in a sprint unless the water temp dictated one. Ken

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Doing my first tri – A sprint – looking to get a wet suit – not looking to spend much but would like some comfort.  REI has a basic shorty around 70 $. Also I have heard that the suit MAY help in providing added flotation ??? any info ? thanks

Response:

I would not wear a wet suit in a sprint unless the water temp dictated one. Ken

Ken I think that this depends on swimming ability and conditions.  For me,  a 750m swim takes about 14-15 minutes in moderate sea conditions.  Add at least 2 minutes to that if I’m not allowed my wetsuit.  If it is rough, then the wetsuit gains me even more.  It takes less than 10 seconds to take off so any gain of more than 10 seconds is worth having. I did the Rarotonga International Tri last month and it was a no wetsuit swim.  Took me 34 minutes IIRC for the 1500m swim, normally 1500m will take me less that 30. Cheers Jeff

Response:

Good point.   it does depend a great deal on swimming ability.   I too am pretty slow.  perhaps a suit could save me a minute even on a sprint. Ken

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I would not wear a wet suit in a sprint unless the water temp dictated one. Ken Ken I think that this depends on swimming ability and conditions.  For me,  a 750m swim takes about 14-15 minutes in moderate sea conditions.  Add at least 2 minutes to that if I’m not allowed my wetsuit.  If it is rough, then the wetsuit gains me even more.  It takes less than 10 seconds to take off so any gain of more than 10 seconds is worth having. I did the Rarotonga International Tri last month and it was a no wetsuit swim.  Took me 34 minutes IIRC for the 1500m swim, normally 1500m will take me less that 30. Cheers Jeff

Response:

Question:

Peter, congratulations on making your goal time and enjoying the experience. Thanks for the detailed report–as I count the days until my first marathon (Oct. 28), I’m inspired by reports like yours. Cheers. Chris Smith – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – (snip stuff about the organization of the Queen City Marathon) As I mentioned, this was my first marathon, having run 3 half-marathons before. I’m a 43 year old runner who only took up the sport seriously in March. My first half-marathon was in June, 2000, and my "training" consisted of 20 minute jogs around the neighborhood 3-4 times a week in tennis shoes. I ran the half in those same tennis shoes, and paid dearly for it for about 4 weeks after. Nevertheless, I managed to get through in 1:58, under my time goal of 2 hours. This year I knew better, and started training with a group in March. Having dropped 10 pounds, and logging considerably more mileage I managed a respectable 1:50 at the June, 2001 race. A number of runners from our group discussed the idea of a fall run. Minneapolis was already full, so the idea of running in the inaugural Queen City Marathon took hold. Unfortunately, or so I thought at the time, they did not have a half marathon (having decided to concentrate on the full marathon in their first year to make sure they got it right). Frankly, the idea of running 26.2 miles was a completely intimidating prospect to someone who had never run more than 14 miles. However, I went for it, and don’t regret it for a minute. I trained hard through a hot summer, running 5 days a week, putting in long runs with the group of 14-20 miles every Sunday morning, losing another 10 pounds. My wife soon complained of becoming a "Marathon widow". By the time we started our taper a few weeks ago, we were talking of "just a 14-miler today". I set a goal of 3:40 for the marathon. OK, I admit, I had fantasies that if I grew wings and had a good tailwind behind me I could get in under 3:30. We ran a 10-miler at that pace (4:58/km, or 8:00/mile) a week before the big event, and I felt really good at the end of it. Anyway, it’s highly unlikely anybody much cares about this except me, but here is how it went, broken down into 7 km intervals. km      average pace/km 0-7       4:58     Very cold at the starting line, felt good to be moving 7-14      5:00     Getting into the run, enjoying the scenery 14-21     5:01     Feeling good, concentrating on staying on pace Hooray! Got to the 21.1 km mark in 1:45, a new personal best for the half , and right on pace for a 3:30 finish. I felt pretty good at this point too, keeping a nice steady rhythm. Ah, but things were about to change. The tailwind I was hoping for turned into a headwind, gusting to 40 km/hr on the return part of the trail. That, combined with onsetting fatigue, meant my dream time will have to wait for another race. Here’s how the rest went. 21-28     5:12     Starting to slow down 28-35     5:29     Definitely feeling the effects of the wind and fatigue 35-42.2   5:27     Legs are like lead weights for most of this portion Finish time: 3:39:12 (average pace 5:11/km) I didn’t make my dream time, but did make the realistic goal I’d set. Also finished upright and smiling, which can’t be underestimated. I felt great, and eager to to it again, though maybe not this week Peter

Response:

….  Also finished upright and smiling, which can’t be underestimated. I felt great, and eager to to it again, though maybe not this week Peter

Congratulations! And it sounds like you found the most important part of running! Dot

Response:

[snip] Finish time: 3:39:12 (average pace 5:11/km) I didn’t make my dream time, but did make the realistic goal I’d set. Also finished upright and smiling, which can’t be underestimated. I felt great, and eager to to it again, though maybe not this week

Fantastic result, Peter. Congratulations. Besides, you wouldn’t want to hit your dream time the first time out. That would leave you nothing to shoot for on your next one! Thanks for sharing your experience with us. John London, ON

Response:

21-28     5:12     Starting to slow down 28-35     5:29     Definitely feeling the effects of the wind and fatigue 35-42.2   5:27     Legs are like lead weights for most of this portion Finish time: 3:39:12 (average pace 5:11/km)

Great race.  I recognize the effects of the last 14 km from my own races.   Like carrying dead animals on your legs. In the spring in Edmonton, I would have danced in the streets with 3:39 but alas I faded to a 3:47.  Sounds like Regina did a fine job for the first marathon.  I’ll note that for future marathon attempts. — Lorne Sundby

Response:

Full marathon participants received a medal and will be mailed a 5×7 finish line photo. A large number of volunteers helped with manning the aid stations, directing traffic, providing entertainment along the way, and generally making sure everyone had a great time. I didn’t make my dream time, but did make the realistic goal I’d set. Also finished upright and smiling, which can’t be underestimated. I felt great, and eager to to it again, though maybe not this week

Peter, Great Job, great report, and it looks like you had a lot of fun. I’m glad you mentioned the volunteers also.  That is something I forget about too often. We had quite a few bands on my "first" (correct length) marathon, despite the rain, and it was pretty neat to clap for some of them because they would use their sound system to give you encouragement back. Thanks,         Roger

Response:

Any results online? Ken Ken Parker Runner’s Web <http://www.runnersweb.com A running and Triathlon Resource Portal

Response:

Any results online? Ken Parker Runner’s Web <http://www.runnersweb.com A running and Triathlon Resource Portal

They should be posted as soon as they’ve been finalized, at the QCM website (www.queencitymarathononline.com) and I think also at www.sportstats.ca/main.html

Response:

The first Queen City Marathon was held in Regina, Saskatchewan, on Sunday, September 23. The organizers had a vision to create the premiere running event in Saskatchewan, and to that end put a great deal of effort into the organization of the race. Almost 600 full marathoners took part, including many out-of-towners, and many who were running the marathon for the first time (myself included). In addition, there were relay teams, with anywhere from 2-5 runners.  The course itself is quite flat, and is run mostly along bicycle/foot paths through the extensive park system in the city. It passes a lake and river system, which were beautiful at this time of the year with the fall colours already turning leaves to gold and brown. The race organization was superb, with many things runners look for. There were markers at every kilometer and every mile, and aid stations every 2-3 km with both water and powerade.  Electronic timers were at the 1 mile and 21.1 mile points, and final results were posted together with split times, chip time, and gun time shortly as each group of 20 or so runners finished. The course was certified according to international IAAF/AIMS standards, which means the results can be used as qualifying times for the Boston Marathon. This makes the Queens City Marathon one of a handful of certified Canadian marathons. Full marathon participants received a medal and will be mailed a 5×7 finish line photo. A large number of volunteers helped with manning the aid stations, directing traffic, providing entertainment along the way, and generally making sure everyone had a great time. As I mentioned, this was my first marathon, having run 3 half-marathons before. I’m a 43 year old runner who only took up the sport seriously in March. My first half-marathon was in June, 2000, and my "training" consisted of 20 minute jogs around the neighborhood 3-4 times a week in tennis shoes. I ran the half in those same tennis shoes, and paid dearly for it for about 4 weeks after. Nevertheless, I managed to get through in 1:58, under my time goal of 2 hours. This year I knew better, and started training with a group in March. Having dropped 10 pounds, and logging considerably more mileage I managed a respectable 1:50 at the June, 2001 race. A number of runners from our group discussed the idea of a fall run. Minneapolis was already full, so the idea of running in the inaugural Queen City Marathon took hold. Unfortunately, or so I thought at the time, they did not have a half marathon (having decided to concentrate on the full marathon in their first year to make sure they got it right). Frankly, the idea of running 26.2 miles was a completely intimidating prospect to someone who had never run more than 14 miles. However, I went for it, and don’t regret it for a minute. I trained hard through a hot summer, running 5 days a week, putting in long runs with the group of 14-20 miles every Sunday morning, losing another 10 pounds. My wife soon complained of becoming a "Marathon widow". By the time we started our taper a few weeks ago, we were talking of "just a 14-miler today". I set a goal of 3:40 for the marathon. OK, I admit, I had fantasies that if I grew wings and had a good tailwind behind me I could get in under 3:30. We ran a 10-miler at that pace (4:58/km, or 8:00/mile) a week before the big event, and I felt really good at the end of it. Anyway, it’s highly unlikely anybody much cares about this except me, but here is how it went, broken down into 7 km intervals. km      average pace/km 0-7       4:58     Very cold at the starting line, felt good to be moving 7-14      5:00     Getting into the run, enjoying the scenery 14-21     5:01     Feeling good, concentrating on staying on pace Hooray! Got to the 21.1 km mark in 1:45, a new personal best for the half , and right on pace for a 3:30 finish. I felt pretty good at this point too, keeping a nice steady rhythm. Ah, but things were about to change. The tailwind I was hoping for turned into a headwind, gusting to 40 km/hr on the return part of the trail. That, combined with onsetting fatigue, meant my dream time will have to wait for another race. Here’s how the rest went. 21-28     5:12     Starting to slow down 28-35     5:29     Definitely feeling the effects of the wind and fatigue 35-42.2   5:27     Legs are like lead weights for most of this portion Finish time: 3:39:12 (average pace 5:11/km) I didn’t make my dream time, but did make the realistic goal I’d set. Also finished upright and smiling, which can’t be underestimated. I felt great, and eager to to it again, though maybe not this week Peter

Response:

Question:

Yeah, I’d chime in that they’re pretty good machines — my roommate works with Tom and wound up buying one.  As Steve said, stiffer beam (whoops, ‘boom’ — copyright, don’t you know?) and all that.  The only word of caution I’d offer is that the chainstays on the 650 version are insanely short — i.e. if you go with STI it’s almost impossible to get decent front shifting.  Bar ends (i.e. friction shifting for the front) make everything fine.  The 700 has no such problems.  Tom’s a supercool guy who’s really committed to a good product and the sport.  (no affiliation other than the one mentioned above…..) Mike

Response:

I’ve been riding a Titanflex for the last three months.  Spent 4 years on a Softride Powerwing before that.  I’ve done 3 races on the Titanflex including a 5:40 bike split at IM Australia, which was an Ironman PR for me (not bad for a 61 year old).  The Titanflex is great.  It’s lighter and stiffer than the Softride and just a comfortable.  

Response:

I got my TitanFlex in February and did my second ride in the Mt. Taylor Quadrathlon.  Had an excellent race!  Since then, I’ve put over 3,000 miles on it and it is easily the best bike I’ve ever owned.  The ability to adjust it to suit any geometry is key, but what I like best is the way it climbs and descends.  At 17 pounds, it is light, but it is also very stiff.  I have dropped over a minute off one of my uphill time trial training courses (5K / 1,600 feet vertical), and it tracks very nicely on the steep windy descents.  It also gives a very forgiving ride without all of the bounce you get on a softride.  I would strongly recommend it. -Darrin

Response:

Does anybody have any information about these bikes?  I see their ads in Triathlete every month but have never seen one at any races.  Does anyone have one that they could send me some info?  Does anyone have one for sale? Thanks, Marc

Response:

Check out http://www.ttinet.com/tf/ .  I’ve had one for 2 years (the older model with tubing instead of the monoque frame). I switched to it after riding a steel bike for 7 yrs and a Softride for 3 yrs.  In a word it is great.  All the benefits of the Softride, but lighter.  Overall I canno t recommend a frame more higly if the primary purpose will be riding it in the aero positin. Bne Reuter – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anybody have any information about these bikes?  I see their ads in Triathlete every month but have never seen one at any races.  Does anyone have one that they could send me some info?  Does anyone have one for sale? Thanks, Marc

Response:

Although I don’t sell them, I"ve found their new design to be much better then the earlier attemps.  I’ve worked on a few at races and was able to test ride one at a race. Understand, I"m a big beam fan and am working on designing my Elite line around a beam for 2001. I like the ti beam, stiffer then the Softride and at 6′5" 220, it was nice. It really depends on what you want out of your bike. If you want ultralight, this isn’t it. It is light and can be built in around the 20lb mark which is completely acceptable.  Overall, I think it’s a great bike for the right riders. Steve’s Multisport – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anybody have any information about these bikes?  I see their ads in Triathlete every month but have never seen one at any races.  Does anyone have one that they could send me some info?  Does anyone have one for sale? Thanks, Marc

Response:

While at Wildflower I spoke with Tom Piszkin (owner of Titanflex); a really great guy.  After giving me the story of Titanflex I received some information, you may want to call and ask for the same, or chat with Tom yourself.  Call 1.800.525.2527 ext. 382 or visit their web site at Let me know if you have any other questions. -giancarlo – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Does anybody have any information about these bikes?  I see their ads in Triathlete every month but have never seen one at any races.  Does anyone have one that they could send me some info?  Does anyone have one for sale? Thanks, Marc

Response:

Question:

With all due respect to Oleg, if you’re not able to get your heart rate up by cycling, you’re not cycling correctly.  Try maintaining a pedaling cadence of 90-100 rpm as you work through the gears on a decent bike and watch as your heart rate climbs.

Well, with all due respect… It’s been pretty well demonstrated that most people can’t achieve as high a heart rate on a bike as they can running. This leads to the interesting phenomena of having a measured MHR on a bike lower than your measured MHR while running. This isn’t to say that you can’t get it up there, in the mountains, for example. Mike Tennent "IronPenguin" Ironman Canada ‘98 16:17:03 Great Floridian ‘99, 17:13:38

Response:

I am not a physiologist and I don’t no the reasons for it, but every book or article I have ever read states that you would most likely have different anaerobic thresholds and VO2 Max measures for different endurance activities.  I don’t recall there being any difference in Max heart rate if the tests are done correctly; in fact, I’d be surprised to see different max heart rates between sports.  Perceived exertion is another matter… — Tom I. St. Paul, Minnesota – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello everyone, I have been using a heart rate monitor for several years now.  I determine my aerobic max hr by subtracting 40 bpm from my max heart rate.  I was wondering if my aerobic training zones for running, swimming and biking should be the same?  I feel like my running aerobic zone should be higher than my biking aerobic zone.  Any response will be appreciated. Thanks alot! Doug

Response:

Since I have probably done ~500 max tests in the past 4 years, I can say that in general the following occur: 1)  A trained cyclist but untrained runner who does a treadmill ™ test might have an equal max HR on both a bike and a tm.  This, I theorize, is due to increased muscle use and having to support the body weight on the tm. 2)  A trained runner but untrained cyclist who does a bike max test will most likely have a lower max HR on the bike than on the run.  This could be due to local fatigue setting (the legs get tired before the heart/lungs give in) and also having not to support body weight on the bike 3)  A trained triathlete will have a tendency to have MaxHR that are pretty close to another. YMMV

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I am not a physiologist and I don’t no the reasons for it, but every book or article I have ever read states that you would most likely have different anaerobic thresholds and VO2 Max measures for different endurance activities.  I don’t recall there being any difference in Max heart rate if the tests are done correctly; in fact, I’d be surprised to see different max heart rates between sports.  Perceived exertion is another matter… — Tom I. St. Paul, Minnesota Hello everyone, I have been using a heart rate monitor for several years now.  I determine my aerobic max hr by subtracting 40 bpm from my max heart rate.  I was wondering if my aerobic training zones for running, swimming and biking should be the same?  I feel like my running aerobic zone should be higher than my biking aerobic zone.  Any response will be appreciated. Thanks alot! Doug

Response:

With all due respect to Oleg, if you’re not able to get your heart rate up by cycling, you’re not cycling correctly.  Try maintaining a pedaling cadence of 90-100 rpm as you work through the gears on a decent bike and watch as your heart rate climbs.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello everyone, I have been using a heart rate monitor for several years now.  I determine my aerobic max hr by subtracting 40 bpm from my max heart rate.  I was wondering if my aerobic training zones for running, swimming and biking should be the same?  I feel like my running aerobic zone should be higher than my biking aerobic zone.  Any response will be appreciated. Thanks alot! Doug As far as cardiovascular system is concerned, your heart has no idea if the rest of your body is biking, running, if your favorite team is losing or you are

falling in love from the – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – first sight. It’s a lot more difficult to get your heart rate up by biking than it is by running, that’s why it feels different. Being physically tired and having your heart rate going up is often two different things. —  Oleg

Response:

Hello everyone, I have been using a heart rate monitor for several years now.  I determine my aerobic max hr by subtracting 40 bpm from my max heart rate.  I was wondering if my aerobic training zones for running, swimming and biking should be the same?  I feel like my running aerobic zone should be higher than my biking aerobic zone.  Any response will be appreciated. Thanks alot! Doug

As far as cardiovascular system is concerned, your heart has no idea if the rest of your body is biking, running, if your favorite team is losing or you are falling in love from the first sight. It’s a lot more difficult to get your heart rate up by biking than it is by running, that’s why it feels different. Being physically tired and having your heart rate going up is often two different things. —  Oleg

Response:

Unless you are well trained in all 3 disciplines it is unlikely that your max HR would be the same for all 3;  thus the aerobic zone would be different.  Cycling and swimming would most likely be lower due to your not having to support body weight in either case and in the case of swimming the prone position reduces stress on the heart and increases pre-load on the heart. Another question is how did you determine your max HR?  If you used one of the myriad of formulae to estimate, the odds are that it is off by a few beats at the least.

– Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hello everyone, I have been using a heart rate monitor for several years now.  I determine my aerobic max hr by subtracting 40 bpm from my max heart rate.  I was wondering if my aerobic training zones for running, swimming and biking should be the same?  I feel like my running aerobic zone should be higher than my biking aerobic zone.  Any response will be appreciated. Thanks alot! Doug

Response:

Hello everyone, I have been using a heart rate monitor for several years now.  I determine my aerobic max hr by subtracting 40 bpm from my max heart rate.  I was wondering if my aerobic training zones for running, swimming and biking should be the same?  I feel like my running aerobic zone should be higher than my biking aerobic zone.  Any response will be appreciated. Thanks alot! Doug

Response:

Question:

The specifications for bicycles are aimed towards standard frames – I don’t think recumbents will pass.  The front to center (chain ring axle to front axle) distance probably rules them out.  But I’ve never taken a tape measure to a recumbent. See USAT rule 5.11 and 5.12. Larry – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have never seen this question before.  Can you ride a recumbent in a triathlon?  If you can’t, why? Thanks John Zarling

Response:

unmitigated audacity to write: I have never seen this question before.  Can you ride a recumbent in a triathlon?  If you can’t, why?

        Good question. I don’t remember any regulations about it but what would you do when you reach a steep hill? With a road or tri bike, you just come out of the saddle and crank.         Ken K. Chairman, Department of Redundancy Department

Response:

I think I remember reading in the USAT rule book, where it says that recumbents are not allowed. I guess as long as it is not a USAT sanctioned race, it is up to the director.  I would call the director before showing up with your bike at a race. BTW, recumbents can climb hills. Fellow weekend recumbent rider, Dan – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I have never seen this question before.  Can you ride a recumbent in a triathlon?  If you can’t, why? Thanks John Zarling

Response:

I have never seen this question before.  Can you ride a recumbent in a triathlon?  If you can’t, why? Thanks John Zarling

Response:

Question:

     Must…resist…having…physics…discussion on RST….   Actually, that does sound familiar, but I think it has something to do with energy turning to mass. Probably has something to do with Newton’s laws not working in subatomic levels.   I don’t think this would affect your wheels (whose particles are essentially in orbit around your axis, that’s how this got started).   But, orbital decay is a good excuse for at least going 30 seconds below your PR….

Response:

Oh yeah, I forgot that I

Question:

Over the last 4 years I have been an active member of Team Magic, the group that stages Powerman Alabama and other multi-sport races.  I always find it amazing to see how many whiners are in our sport.  In most cases these are the same people who have never attempted to further the sport or to even volunteer at a race.  And more often than not they finish the race with a list of excuses on why they were not in the top three, and never confess that it was due to poor preparation on their part or that they were just not fast enough. Most participants are appreciative of your efforts and realize without the director and volunteers  there would not be a race.   I strongly urge you to say a kind word to the person directing traffic or body marking because in most cases they arrive well ahead of you and will be on the course after you are driving home cleaning up the mess you left behind. And finally, if you are so repulsed by the actions of a race director or a race in general do all concerned a big favor and stay home next year.  They will certainly get along better without you. Charles – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 10) Putting the needs of NBC before the athlete’s needs.  All those special interest stories should be canned as the motorcyclists chasing them during the race put the athletes at risk.  Remember 2 years ago when an athlete was hit by a motorcyclist? Well, he was chasing one of those "special interest athletes". As a result a "regular" athlete ends up out of the race and in the hospital. 9)Awarding only $1500 for 10th place. That means Tim DeBoom made only 72 cents an hour training for IM this year ( based on a 40hr work week). 8)A race director that has never done a race in her life and doesn’t understand the needs of triathletes. 7)That stupid loop on the run course at the top of Palani. 6)Letting Scott Tinley play the guitar and sing at the carbo load. His 8 minute song was 10 minutes too long. 5)Not allowing Dave Scott, Mark Allen or Newby any air time during the carbo load or awards party. Between the 3 of them they have won 20 IM’s! Why weren’t we allowed the privilege of hearing THEM speak? 4)No shuttle for athletes after the race. One of the athletes we know had to take a taxi out to Waikoloa after the race. And where was the morning of the race shuttle? One athlete waited half an hour and was scared for his life when who should pick him up but….Remy the Rastafarian coconut man. 3)Shitty food at both parties at an expensive price. The ticket for the parties cost $20 and $25. The pierogies are donated and they have volunteers working for free to serve it up–why the exorbitant fee? The mystery fish at the carbo load was definitely not Ahi or Ono– or even any fish we might recognize. And we really liked those Costco 3 gallon salad dressings. Couldn’t one of the King Kam chefs have made a healthy dressing? 2)Athletes and sponsors separated by a fence at the parties. Come on IM, I thought this race is for the athletes, why can’t the sponsors mingle with the common folk? It’s not like we are going to rush the stage like a rock concert. (Although after Tinley’s song we wanted to) 1)Not giving back to the athletes.  One of the original Ironman told me that IM was SO CHEAP that –although he was "invited" to the 20th anniversary– IM corp.would not pay for his (or any of the other oldtimers) airfare, hotel or transportation. Imagine the millions of dollars going into that eye doctor’s pockets… these men are our "astronauts" that we honored and gave a standing ovation for at the carbo load party. Im should  treat them like kings, put them up at a nice hotel and drive them around all week.

Response:

I agree, Augie! This was truly drivel. Did this person even do the race? Funny, I don’t remember seeing her motorcade or red carpet out on the course. Having done both IMC and IM, the IM org. does an outstanding job. So hey, Ms poster, if you didn’t like the salad dressing — skip it or bring your own! Puleeze! Laura – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – After reading this drivel from a spoiled prima donna who won’t even sign his or her name I am so incredibly incensed that I don’t event think it apppropriate to respond to the individual comments noted at this time. As a race director myself, I deeply resent the shallow minded insinuation that Sharron Ackles’ direction of the race was/is anything but first class and at every measure with the needs of the athletes foremost. I am sure we’d all like to race one of your races…you know, where they pick you up at the airport in the limo.  Please post the date and place. Get real. Augie Calabrese 10) Putting the needs of NBC before the athlete’s needs.  All those special interest stories should be canned as the motorcyclists chasing them during the race put the athletes at risk.  Remember 2 years ago when an athlete was hit by a motorcyclist? Well, he was chasing one of those "special interest athletes". As a result a "regular" athlete ends up out of the race and in the hospital. 9)Awarding only $1500 for 10th place. That means Tim DeBoom made only 72 cents an hour training for IM this year ( based on a 40hr work week). 8)A race director that has never done a race in her life and doesn’t understand the needs of triathletes. 7)That stupid loop on the run course at the top of Palani. 6)Letting Scott Tinley play the guitar and sing at the carbo load. His 8 minute song was 10 minutes too long. 5)Not allowing Dave Scott, Mark Allen or Newby any air time during the carbo load or awards party. Between the 3 of them they have won 20 IM’s! Why weren’t we allowed the privilege of hearing THEM speak? 4)No shuttle for athletes after the race. One of the athletes we know had to take a taxi out to Waikoloa after the race. And where was the morning of the race shuttle? One athlete waited half an hour and was scared for his life when who should pick him up but….Remy the Rastafarian coconut man. 3)Shitty food at both parties at an expensive price. The ticket for the parties cost $20 and $25. The pierogies are donated and they have volunteers working for free to serve it up–why the exorbitant fee? The mystery fish at the carbo load was definitely not Ahi or Ono– or even any fish we might recognize. And we really liked those Costco 3 gallon salad dressings. Couldn’t one of the King Kam chefs have made a healthy dressing? 2)Athletes and sponsors separated by a fence at the parties. Come on IM, I thought this race is for the athletes, why can’t the sponsors mingle with the common folk? It’s not like we are going to rush the stage like a rock concert. (Although after Tinley’s song we wanted to) 1)Not giving back to the athletes.  One of the original Ironman told me that IM was SO CHEAP that –although he was "invited" to the 20th anniversary– IM corp.would not pay for his (or any of the other oldtimers) airfare, hotel or transportation. Imagine the millions of dollars going into that eye doctor’s pockets… these men are our "astronauts" that we honored and gave a standing ovation for at the carbo load party. Im should  treat them like kings, put them up at a nice hotel and drive them around all week.

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Well, perhaps you should plan on skipping this race in future years.  Or perhaps you’d like to take on the job of directing a major international sporting event with a field of over 1500 athletes speaking several different languages, thousands of volunteers, an enormous media pool, two transition areas over 7 miles apart, nightmarish race support/coordination logistics, horrific race conditions necessitating significant medical support on the alert…..and on and on…. I’ll agree that IMH’s status as THE big race in triathlon renders it neither perfect nor exempt from criticism, but can’t you at least make it constructive criticism?  What on earth is the point of such ill-tempered belly-aching?  Do you expect the race to be perfect?  Hate to tell you, my anonymous friend, but nothing in this world is perfect.   Sure, many of the things you mention could be improved (I personally agree about the carbo and awards dinners), but you don’t even seem to be looking for discussion on these points; you appear to be just looking for a forum in which to complain.  That’s what petulant children do.  "I don’t like this!  It’s bad!  Just because!" Why not try addressing your complaints in a constructive manner where they might do some good—with the Ironman organization?  Aside from that, many of your gripes were just plain petty (number 7 in particular struck me as bizarre). While submitting your complaints, why not acknowledge all of the neat things about IMH, the things that went smoothly and well?  Unless you didn’t see anything like that at all.  In which case you are more deserving of pity than of scorn. I know a few thousand trigeeks who would be happy to take your place at this "poorly run" event.  No, IMH is not perfect; in several respects I find IMC to be better organized.  But playing Grumpy here on RST isn’t going to improve it at all.  A more constructive approach might be to solicit input from other IMH athletes, and then present the collected input to WTC.  And say a few nice things while you’re at it.  Do you enjoy being roundly criticized on a project on which you have worked extremely hard without having any of the good things about your work acknowledged? Just a few thoughts. – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 10) Putting the needs of NBC before the athlete’s needs.  All those special interest stories should be canned as the motorcyclists chasing them during the race put the athletes at risk.  Remember 2 years ago when an athlete was hit by a motorcyclist? Well, he was chasing one of those "special interest athletes". As a result a "regular" athlete ends up out of the race and in the hospital. 9)Awarding only $1500 for 10th place. That means Tim DeBoom made only 72 cents an hour training for IM this year ( based on a 40hr work week). 8)A race director that has never done a race in her life and doesn’t understand the needs of triathletes. 7)That stupid loop on the run course at the top of Palani. 6)Letting Scott Tinley play the guitar and sing at the carbo load. His 8 minute song was 10 minutes too long. 5)Not allowing Dave Scott, Mark Allen or Newby any air time during the carbo load or awards party. Between the 3 of them they have won 20 IM’s! Why weren’t we allowed the privilege of hearing THEM speak? 4)No shuttle for athletes after the race. One of the athletes we know had to take a taxi out to Waikoloa after the race. And where was the morning of the race shuttle? One athlete waited half an hour and was scared for his life when who should pick him up but….Remy the Rastafarian coconut man. 3)Shitty food at both parties at an expensive price. The ticket for the parties cost $20 and $25. The pierogies are donated and they have volunteers working for free to serve it up–why the exorbitant fee? The mystery fish at the carbo load was definitely not Ahi or Ono– or even any fish we might recognize. And we really liked those Costco 3 gallon salad dressings. Couldn’t one of the King Kam chefs have made a healthy dressing? 2)Athletes and sponsors separated by a fence at the parties. Come on IM, I thought this race is for the athletes, why can’t the sponsors mingle with the common folk? It’s not like we are going to rush the stage like a rock concert. (Although after Tinley’s song we wanted to) 1)Not giving back to the athletes.  One of the original Ironman told me that IM was SO CHEAP that –although he was "invited" to the 20th anniversary– IM corp.would not pay for his (or any of the other oldtimers) airfare, hotel or transportation. Imagine the millions of dollars going into that eye doctor’s pockets… these men are our "astronauts" that we honored and gave a standing ovation for at the carbo load party. Im should  treat them like kings, put them up at a nice hotel and drive them around all week.

– Tri-Baby                                      _                                   –    o      ’             –  __o       –    </_  `     ‘         –    <         – __/    /o_         – (()) (())        -  / "REAL Triathletes don’t draft." http://www.stanford.edu/~brooksie        

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snip snip snip

I’d be glad to take your spot next year and be abused… Al Kormesser

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I loved Natasha’s victory speech.  She did not complain about anything regarding the race, the course or the conditions.  She was thankful for the warm water to swim in and enjoyed looking at the beautiful fish and coral.  She also expressed how she felt like she had wings on the bike. She was not so self-absorbed that she couldn’t appreciate what was good and say "thank-you".  Natasha is a real winner regardless of where she may or may not have placed.  I don’t understand the mentality that does nothing but grouse about the race.  That kind of complaining and blaming is usually found with people that don’t feel like they do well and then try to place the blame on others.  I really believe that the more positive we can be, the better off we will be physically and mentally, which, in turn, leads to a faster and more enjoyable race.  Patti (Tri-ing)

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Agree 100% with your comments! Hey, a tough course is what makes this race worthwhile, folks. It would be meaningless, otherwise. Qualifying and participating in Kona is a rare gift to be savored. Appreciate the journey and the power of that Island –it is humbling. Proud to have experienced it. Laura – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – I loved Natasha’s victory speech.  She did not complain about anything regarding the race, the course or the conditions.  She was thankful for the warm water to swim in and enjoyed looking at the beautiful fish and coral.  She also expressed how she felt like she had wings on the bike. She was not so self-absorbed that she couldn’t appreciate what was good and say "thank-you".  Natasha is a real winner regardless of where she may or may not have placed.  I don’t understand the mentality that does nothing but grouse about the race.  That kind of complaining and blaming is usually found with people that don’t feel like they do well and then try to place the blame on others.  I really believe that the more positive we can be, the better off we will be physically and mentally, which, in turn, leads to a faster and more enjoyable race.  Patti (Tri-ing)

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I picked up several athletes on Race Morning who were quite agitated the Race Shuttle hadn’t arrived.

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Ironman Hawaii and Ironman Canada were the two best experiences of my life – hands down! I had absolutely no problems with either race in terms of registering, numbering, getting there on time, the volunteers, aid stations, the finish, post race, etc. It was ALL first class. Wileyjr4’s list had some points that I am sure some people agree with, but all I can say is that it was smooth for me all the way through and I was a BOP’er. A few points on the Top 10 …. Tinley’s song wasn’t the greatest, but hey, give the guy all the credit in the world for having the "balls" to get up there and do it. That was so Tinley, that’s what makes him so cool. Maybe Mark, Dave and Paula elected to not be part of the show? They’ve had their day’s in the sun, maybe they wanted to let others have theirs. The shuttle. Don’t know anything about it. If some people missed it, that is a bummer. Hopefully they did make the start some other way. The sponsor’s being in a separate spot. Hey, they paid big, big bucks to be part of the event, why shouldn’t they be entitled to have their own private area. I found no problems with the food we were served. Caro and Award tickets were the same for Canada as well and I thought the food here was as good if not better. And why bother even complaining about the out and back at the top of Palani … Hell, what about the PIT!? Dennis IMH ‘98 – 13:53:27

10) Putting the needs of NBC before the athlete’s needs.  All those special interest stories should be canned as the motorcyclists chasing them during the race put the athletes at risk.  Remember 2 years ago when an athlete was hit by a motorcyclist? Well, he was chasing one of those "special interest athletes". As a result a "regular" athlete ends up out of the race and in the hospital. 9)Awarding only $1500 for 10th place. That means Tim DeBoom made only 72 cents an hour training for IM this year ( based on a 40hr work week). 8)A race director that has never done a race in her life and doesn’t understand the needs of triathletes. 7)That stupid loop on the run course at the top of Palani. 6)Letting Scott Tinley play the guitar and sing at the carbo load. His 8 minute song was 10 minutes too long. 5)Not allowing Dave Scott, Mark Allen or Newby any air time during the carbo load or awards party. Between the 3 of them they have won 20 IM’s! Why weren’t we allowed the privilege of hearing THEM speak? 4)No shuttle for athletes after the race. One of the athletes we know had to take a taxi out to Waikoloa after the race. And where was the morning of the race shuttle? One athlete waited half an hour and was scared for his life when who should pick him up but….Remy the Rastafarian coconut man. 3)Shitty food at both parties at an expensive price. The ticket for the parties cost $20 and $25. The pierogies are donated and they have volunteers working for free to serve it up–why the exorbitant fee? The mystery fish at the carbo load was definitely not Ahi or Ono– or even any fish we might recognize. And we really liked those Costco 3 gallon salad dressings. Couldn’t one of the King Kam chefs have made a healthy dressing? 2)Athletes and sponsors separated by a fence at the parties. Come on IM, I thought this race is for the athletes, why can’t the sponsors mingle with the common folk? It’s not like we are going to rush the stage like a rock concert. (Although after Tinley’s song we wanted to) 1)Not giving back to the athletes.  One of the original Ironman told me that IM was SO CHEAP that –although he was "invited" to the 20th anniversary– IM corp.would not pay for his (or any of the other oldtimers) airfare, hotel or transportation. Imagine the millions of dollars going into that eye doctor’s pockets… these men are our "astronauts" that we honored and gave a standing ovation for at the carbo load party. Im should  treat them like kings, put them up at a nice hotel and drive them around all week.

Response:

Julie, you have missed the mark wide on this one.  Best let these comments die and be forgotten.  Ironman and Sharron are better people than you could possibly imagine. Ray Plotecia Male Amateur, 50-54 Ruxton, MD – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 10) Putting the needs of NBC before the athlete’s needs.  All those special interest stories should be canned as the motorcyclists chasing them during the race put the athletes at risk.  Remember 2 years ago when an athlete was hit by a motorcyclist? Well, he was chasing one of those "special interest athletes". As a result a "regular" athlete ends up out of the race and in the hospital. 9)Awarding only $1500 for 10th place. That means Tim DeBoom made only 72 cents an hour training for IM this year ( based on a 40hr work week). 8)A race director that has never done a race in her life and doesn’t understand the needs of triathletes. 7)That stupid loop on the run course at the top of Palani. 6)Letting Scott Tinley play the guitar and sing at the carbo load. His 8 minute song was 10 minutes too long. 5)Not allowing Dave Scott, Mark Allen or Newby any air time during the carbo load or awards party. Between the 3 of them they have won 20 IM’s! Why weren’t we allowed the privilege of hearing THEM speak? 4)No shuttle for athletes after the race. One of the athletes we know had to take a taxi out to Waikoloa after the race. And where was the morning of the race shuttle? One athlete waited half an hour and was scared for his life when who should pick him up but….Remy the Rastafarian coconut man. 3)Shitty food at both parties at an expensive price. The ticket for the parties cost $20 and $25. The pierogies are donated and they have volunteers working for free to serve it up–why the exorbitant fee? The mystery fish at the carbo load was definitely not Ahi or Ono– or even any fish we might recognize. And we really liked those Costco 3 gallon salad dressings. Couldn’t one of the King Kam chefs have made a healthy dressing? 2)Athletes and sponsors separated by a fence at the parties. Come on IM, I thought this race is for the athletes, why can’t the sponsors mingle with the common folk? It’s not like we are going to rush the stage like a rock concert. (Although after Tinley’s song we wanted to) 1)Not giving back to the athletes.  One of the original Ironman told me that IM was SO CHEAP that –although he was "invited" to the 20th anniversary– IM corp.would not pay for his (or any of the other oldtimers) airfare, hotel or transportation. Imagine the millions of dollars going into that eye doctor’s pockets… these men are our "astronauts" that we honored and gave a standing ovation for at the carbo load party. Im should  treat them like kings, put them up at a nice hotel and drive them around all week.

Response:

After reading this drivel from a spoiled prima donna who won’t even sign his or her name I am so incredibly incensed that I don’t event think it apppropriate to respond to the individual comments noted at this time. As a race director myself, I deeply resent the shallow minded insinuation that Sharron Ackles’ direction of the race was/is anything but first class and at every measure with the needs of the athletes foremost. I am sure we’d all like to race one of your races…you know, where they pick you up at the airport in the limo.  Please post the date and place. Get real. Augie Calabrese – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – 10) Putting the needs of NBC before the athlete’s needs.  All those special interest stories should be canned as the motorcyclists chasing them during the race put the athletes at risk.  Remember 2 years ago when an athlete was hit by a motorcyclist? Well, he was chasing one of those "special interest athletes". As a result a "regular" athlete ends up out of the race and in the hospital. 9)Awarding only $1500 for 10th place. That means Tim DeBoom made only 72 cents an hour training for IM this year ( based on a 40hr work week). 8)A race director that has never done a race in her life and doesn’t understand the needs of triathletes. 7)That stupid loop on the run course at the top of Palani. 6)Letting Scott Tinley play the guitar and sing at the carbo load. His 8 minute song was 10 minutes too long. 5)Not allowing Dave Scott, Mark Allen or Newby any air time during the carbo load or awards party. Between the 3 of them they have won 20 IM’s! Why weren’t we allowed the privilege of hearing THEM speak? 4)No shuttle for athletes after the race. One of the athletes we know had to take a taxi out to Waikoloa after the race. And where was the morning of the race shuttle? One athlete waited half an hour and was scared for his life when who should pick him up but….Remy the Rastafarian coconut man. 3)Shitty food at both parties at an expensive price. The ticket for the parties cost $20 and $25. The pierogies are donated and they have volunteers working for free to serve it up–why the exorbitant fee? The mystery fish at the carbo load was definitely not Ahi or Ono– or even any fish we might recognize. And we really liked those Costco 3 gallon salad dressings. Couldn’t one of the King Kam chefs have made a healthy dressing? 2)Athletes and sponsors separated by a fence at the parties. Come on IM, I thought this race is for the athletes, why can’t the sponsors mingle with the common folk? It’s not like we are going to rush the stage like a rock concert. (Although after Tinley’s song we wanted to) 1)Not giving back to the athletes.  One of the original Ironman told me that IM was SO CHEAP that –although he was "invited" to the 20th anniversary– IM corp.would not pay for his (or any of the other oldtimers) airfare, hotel or transportation. Imagine the millions of dollars going into that eye doctor’s pockets… these men are our "astronauts" that we honored and gave a standing ovation for at the carbo load party. Im should  treat them like kings, put them up at a nice hotel and drive them around all week.

Response:

10) Putting the needs of NBC before the athlete’s needs.  All those special interest stories should be canned as the motorcyclists chasing them during the race put the athletes at risk.  Remember 2 years ago when an athlete was hit by a motorcyclist? Well, he was chasing one of those "special interest athletes". As a result a "regular" athlete ends up out of the race and in the hospital. 9)Awarding only $1500 for 10th place. That means Tim DeBoom made only 72 cents an hour training for IM this year ( based on a 40hr work week). 8)A race director that has never done a race in her life and doesn’t understand the needs of triathletes. 7)That stupid loop on the run course at the top of Palani. 6)Letting Scott Tinley play the guitar and sing at the carbo load. His 8 minute song was 10 minutes too long. 5)Not allowing Dave Scott, Mark Allen or Newby any air time during the carbo load or awards party. Between the 3 of them they have won 20 IM’s! Why weren’t we allowed the privilege of hearing THEM speak? 4)No shuttle for athletes after the race. One of the athletes we know had to take a taxi out to Waikoloa after the race. And where was the morning of the race shuttle? One athlete waited half an hour and was scared for his life when who should pick him up but….Remy the Rastafarian coconut man. 3)Shitty food at both parties at an expensive price. The ticket for the parties cost $20 and $25. The pierogies are donated and they have volunteers working for free to serve it up–why the exorbitant fee? The mystery fish at the carbo load was definitely not Ahi or Ono– or even any fish we might recognize. And we really liked those Costco 3 gallon salad dressings. Couldn’t one of the King Kam chefs have made a healthy dressing? 2)Athletes and sponsors separated by a fence at the parties. Come on IM, I thought this race is for the athletes, why can’t the sponsors mingle with the common folk? It’s not like we are going to rush the stage like a rock concert. (Although after Tinley’s song we wanted to) 1)Not giving back to the athletes.  One of the original Ironman told me that IM was SO CHEAP that –although he was "invited" to the 20th anniversary– IM corp.would not pay for his (or any of the other oldtimers) airfare, hotel or transportation. Imagine the millions of dollars going into that eye doctor’s pockets… these men are our "astronauts" that we honored and gave a standing ovation for at the carbo load party. Im should  treat them like kings, put them up at a nice hotel and drive them around all week.

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Question:

Hi, I was wondering if anyone had used the camelback aeroflow?  I have seen it in many a catalog and in triathlete mag and it looks like just what I need.  I can’t use the aerocages behind the saddle, because of my seat pack. tri-ke (Mike)

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Mike,  I use the Trimble dual cage holder which attaches to your seat rails. It has just enough space between the bottle mounts to get a small seatpack in. I use a Blackburn Bullet pack and it holds two tubes, tire levers,CO2 Superflate, etc. Regards,          Chuck – Hide quoted text — Show quoted text – Hi, I was wondering if anyone had used the camelback aeroflow?  I have seen it in many a catalog and in triathlete mag and it looks like just what I need.  I can’t use the aerocages behind the saddle, because of my seat pack. tri-ke (Mike)

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Question:

Anyone know the dates and distance of this race?

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Anyone heard about Gulf Coast results yet? Do they have a web page?

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Anyone heard about Gulf Coast results yet? Do they have a web page?

There is a webpage at http://www.transitiontimes.com/gulfcoasttri.htm but does not have any reference to results. Results should, however, be posted at http://www.cftsommersports.com/results.htm as soon as they become available.  Last I checked, there were none. -Mark Johnson IMC97 http://www.math.princeton.edu/~maejohns

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writes: Anyone know the dates and distance of this race?

The Mighty Mite Triathlon will be held on July 19.  The race is a .4ms / 13mb / 3 mr. More information can be found in Runner Triathlete News (either the print magazine or web site — www.runningnetwork.com/RunTriNews) Lance Phegley Editor Runner Triathlete News

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July 19th right smack dab in the middle of summer

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