csenne wrote:
My first concern with Labor Day race is the heat....... Also not the most desirable location to spend a minimum of three nights. With a mandatory Friday check in and Sunday race.
Asheville would draw many more athletes looking for a destination IM. The course would be tough (but this is an IM) It is interesting with courses like Lake Placis and Tahoe that the bike course in Asheville is causing a delay in the announcement. The weather would also be much nicer on Labor Day and water conditions ideal.
Please WTC make a decision............
First, your argument about heat is irrelevant since both site are in the southeast and are similar. The average temperature difference between Chattanooga and Asheville in September is only 6 degrees. I personally would be more concerned with amount of climbing required by the Asheville course. That will have a big impact on the number of IM participants. Chattanooga has many options to make the course relatively easy or brutal if desired. Also, you honestly believe "many more people" will attend Asheville over Chattanooga? Have you even been to Chattanooga? There is a reason it is one of the top outdoor destinations in the country. Major events such as the US Pro Cycling Championships are booking Chattanooga constantly. Don't get me wrong, I think Asheville is absolutely beautiful and would make a good IM destination. I just think IM Chattannoga is a better option.