msrixon wrote:
Yes, conditions were terrible, but have to say I loved the race!
Being at the pointier end of the race and riding 78mm wheels (i didn't have the option to change after the email came out saying not to), I think the only area where I was truly terrified was out at the most western point where you take a descent completely exposed to the winds. Other than that, I was just being cautious and anticipate the wind when going past gates etc but nothing too difficult to deal with. Temperature wise, I was fine with my race suit and a long sleeve aero top. I think it was a tough but reasonable route if you get times to view it first. Would be awful if you had to ride without seeing it first and obviously you had to pace it for the conditions (I didn't and came off my bike at one point) luckily a nice soft muddy landing...Only one guy got a sub 5hr bike this year and he is an ex world tour cyclist...
I have to say though the support on the run made up for anything on the weather. I think besides the odd idiot who likes to dump oil on the bike route (right on a downhill left hand turn..just to make sure they really try and hurt somebody) the area really gets behind the event. Really helps to keep you going in the tough final few hours.
As I booked quite late, I rented a 4 bedroom cottage with my family outside of town on a caravan park called Little Kings. My sister who has two young children also rented a caravan on site so that is an option. It was about 25 minutes drive outside of Tenby, but is located on the bike route quite near the big climbs to Narbeth, and Wisemans Bridge/Saundersfoot. So is good for getting in some recon rides. The staff were really friendly and they even tracked me during the race. But on the downside, I think it was a little extra logistics, as everything is based in the town. The car parks in Tenby were completely full on bike drop off day and also got quite full on race day. So it might be worth seeing if you can rent an air-bnb place in he town for a bit of convenience.
agree, the race is fantastic. as said before, we can only do better next year.
for the accomodation, I was very lucky because on booking.com, last 2 weeks I found Southcliff accomodation, 100m from finish line, 100m from tzone. I strongly suggest you to call them and book now. they are super friendly and the place is nice. only downside, elevator is missing otherwise great for 100GBP per night