I agree that there is a group of women who would feel much more comfortable in a women's only event, especially as a first tri, because it's less intimidating. (I don't know any men who are intimidated by competing with women.) For that reason, I think they should continue. I also like the idea of "Try A Tris". I love kids tris. Anything that gets people up and moving is good.

On a slight tangent though... Out of about 6 tris that I've done only one has been a women's only (a Lunabar event). There were more hard core, OBNOXIOUS women in that race than any of the coed ones. They sneered at the newbies and were not supportive of anyone but themselves. I was very disappointed since I'd been looking forward to the comraderie that everyone mentions.