Kevin, I've done 6 GFT's over the years and loved every one of them! I think what hurt the GFT the most was when IMFL started back in 1999. I've done one IMFL and decided not to ever do it again because of the blatant drafting on the bike. That is why I love GFT because the hills will limit the drafting. Ever since IMFL started the numbers have been falling at GFT. If Fred wants to continue with a 140.6 race I think he should think about the following:
1) Simple easy website and advertise the race here on slowtwitch
2) Offer a discount to Tri clubs who participate and somehow get that word out to all the Federations
2) Need community support down at waterfront park in the form of entertainment and different choices for food
3) Having Finish Line in Downtown seem to have more spectators then down at Waterfront Park
4) Bring back the 3 lap run course around the Lake but add more lights on the back side.
5) Bring back the 1 lap bike course from 1998. It was mostly flat with a few bumps including SugarLoaf
6) Partner with WTC and let GFT be a build up for one of its races whether its a 140.6 or 70.3
I really hope a solution can be found because it is a great event.
Rex
1) Simple easy website and advertise the race here on slowtwitch
2) Offer a discount to Tri clubs who participate and somehow get that word out to all the Federations
2) Need community support down at waterfront park in the form of entertainment and different choices for food
3) Having Finish Line in Downtown seem to have more spectators then down at Waterfront Park
4) Bring back the 3 lap run course around the Lake but add more lights on the back side.
5) Bring back the 1 lap bike course from 1998. It was mostly flat with a few bumps including SugarLoaf
6) Partner with WTC and let GFT be a build up for one of its races whether its a 140.6 or 70.3
I really hope a solution can be found because it is a great event.
Rex