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do it yourself ironman?
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I am getting into pretty good shape and there are not many races for the next two months. I could fly to new zealand and race but don't feel like doing it. I was thinking of just doing an ironman on my own. I could swim the distance in my local pool drive 20 min home hop on the trainer for 112 miles and then run a marathon doing multiple loops in the park outside my backyard. I've done one (Muskoka) before I think well below my potential because I bonked in T2 and took almost an hour to recover. I am definitely not anywhere near able to qualify for Kona and won't be unless I get way more committed and at 50 years of age I would be lucky to not get injured trying. Anyone ever done this before?

They constantly try to escape from the darkness outside and within
Dreaming of systems so perfect that no one will need to be good T.S. Eliot

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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I don't see the point but to each their own.

Favorite Gear: Dimond | Cadex | Desoto Sport | Hoka One One
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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Len,

I think it could be easily done depending on where you live. For instance, I live within driving distance of Lake Placid and have thought about doing exactly what you are describing at some point in the future. I would likely hire someone to follow me in a kayak for the swim and then self support the bike and run. Heck of a lot cheaper than actually spending the money for some cheap dinner and a medal. :)
Mark
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [The GMAN] [ In reply to ]
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The GMAN wrote:
I don't see the point but to each their own.

1. No entry fees
2. True test of mental and physical toughness (nobody to draft off of, nobody cheering you on)
3. If you need to bail for whatever reason you aren't out $700+
4. If you need to move your race from one week to another, pretty easy to do.
5. Do it in the off season when you don't get hosed on hotel fees.

I could likely go on if you want.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [M~] [ In reply to ]
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M~ wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
I don't see the point but to each their own.


1. No entry fees
2. True test of mental and physical toughness (nobody to draft off of, nobody cheering you on)
3. If you need to bail for whatever reason you aren't out $700+
4. If you need to move your race from one week to another, pretty easy to do.
5. Do it in the off season when you don't get hosed on hotel fees.

I could likely go on if you want.

Still not seeing the point but I don't really care what others do. I mean, if I run 13.1 miles in training I would never say I ran a half marathon. A half marathon signifies I did an organized race of some sort. Otherwise, it's just a training run.

I get the OP wants to test himself without the barriers of being locked into a race entry and logistics (which you note) but I, as in me personally, don't get that mindset. I'm just not wired like that. What everyone else does is of little concern to me so at the end of the day it doesn't matter what I think or what he does. I just don't get it. All I'm sayin'.

Favorite Gear: Dimond | Cadex | Desoto Sport | Hoka One One
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [The GMAN] [ In reply to ]
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The GMAN wrote:
M~ wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
I don't see the point but to each their own.


1. No entry fees
2. True test of mental and physical toughness (nobody to draft off of, nobody cheering you on)
3. If you need to bail for whatever reason you aren't out $700+
4. If you need to move your race from one week to another, pretty easy to do.
5. Do it in the off season when you don't get hosed on hotel fees.

I could likely go on if you want.


Still not seeing the point but I don't really care what others do. I mean, if I run 13.1 miles in training I would never say I ran a half marathon. A half marathon signifies I did an organized race of some sort. Otherwise, it's just a training run.

I get the OP wants to test himself without the barriers of being locked into a race entry and logistics (which you note) but I, as in me personally, don't get that mindset. I'm just not wired like that. What everyone else does is of little concern to me so at the end of the day it doesn't matter what I think or what he does. I just don't get it. All I'm sayin'.

Fair enough. Maybe next time you won't feel the need to piss on his parade though. :)
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [The GMAN] [ In reply to ]
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The GMAN wrote:
I mean, if I run 13.1 miles in training I would never say I ran a half marathon. A half marathon signifies I did an organized race of some sort.


So I guess my 5k PR that I ran on my own at the track shouldn't count because I didn't pay to run it in an organized race? Just as you don't see the point in doing any triathlon on your own, many people don't see the point in paying Ironman 350 dollars for a 70.3 when other race series charge half that for the same distance.

2x Deca-Ironman World Cup (10 Ironmans in 10 days), 2x Quintuple Ironman World Cup (5 Ironmans in 5 days), Ultraman, Ultra Marathoner, and I once did an Ironman.
Last edited by: chuy: Jan 19, 17 7:16
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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A few years ago I did an indoor Ironman where I swam at the local pool and then did the bike and run in my pain cave. I did it on Kona race day so it was pretty fun watching the live stream and college football during the day. All things said and done, I'm glad I did it although I don't typically mention it if people ask me what Ironmans I've done.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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len wrote:
I am getting into pretty good shape and there are not many races for the next two months. I could fly to new zealand and race but don't feel like doing it. I was thinking of just doing an ironman on my own. I could swim the distance in my local pool drive 20 min home hop on the trainer for 112 miles and then run a marathon doing multiple loops in the park outside my backyard. I've done one (Muskoka) before I think well below my potential because I bonked in T2 and took almost an hour to recover. I am definitely not anywhere near able to qualify for Kona and won't be unless I get way more committed and at 50 years of age I would be lucky to not get injured trying. Anyone ever done this before?

I've done it 10 or 12 times... Can't remember the exact count. Invited friends to do all or whatever part of it with me. Even did a self-supported Ultraman because I didn't want to blow that much cash on just exercising for three days straight. The money I saved paid for me to upgrade to a new bike with electronic shifting. They can be harder or easier than a regular race. I don't like crowded courses, so I like it more. Some newbies need the crowds to cheer them on and find the paid-for catered races better. ;) But seriously, why people want to pay for one is up to them. I've done a bunch of Ironman branded races and they're great too. Just kinda depends on your current situation. I did Ironman Canada last summer and having a race all ready for you around Whistler was pretty kickass.

I've done open water and pools for the swim. Whichever you choose, have a backup plan. And designing your own course to make it challenging for you is a ton of fun.

----------------------------------------------------------
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Interviews with Chris McCormack, Helle Frederikson, Angela Naeth, and many more.
http://www.zentriathlon.com
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I did a half iron distance in training once. Yeah, it's not technically a 70.3, but that's how it was treated in my head. Sure I can't say I did a 70.3 to people like GMAN, but who cares. I'd say at you could at least do a shortened version for training. You'd have to weigh the pros/cons if it is worth doing the full 140.6 on your own and needing to take some time to recover afterwards.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [chuy] [ In reply to ]
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chuy wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
I mean, if I run 13.1 miles in training I would never say I ran a half marathon. A half marathon signifies I did an organized race of some sort.


So I guess my 5k PR that I ran on my own at the track shouldn't count because I didn't pay to run it in an organized race? Just as you don't see the point in doing any triathlon on your own, many people don't see the point in paying Ironman 350 dollars for a 70.3 when other race series charge half that for the same distance.

In this situation I have said in the past that my half marathon PR came during a training run. Or in your case I would say my 5k PR came during a solo attempt. I don't see anything wrong with that. However I also wouldn't say I "ran a half marathon today" or whatever.

As for the OP, I also don't quite understand the point. So much about triathlon, especially at longer distances, is the race and the race day experience. I think a lot of that would be lost doing in on your own. However we are all different so who am I to criticize?
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [The GMAN] [ In reply to ]
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The GMAN wrote:
M~ wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
I don't see the point but to each their own.


1. No entry fees
2. True test of mental and physical toughness (nobody to draft off of, nobody cheering you on)
3. If you need to bail for whatever reason you aren't out $700+
4. If you need to move your race from one week to another, pretty easy to do.
5. Do it in the off season when you don't get hosed on hotel fees.

I could likely go on if you want.


Still not seeing the point but I don't really care what others do. I mean, if I run 13.1 miles in training I would never say I ran a half marathon. A half marathon signifies I did an organized race of some sort. Otherwise, it's just a training run.

I get the OP wants to test himself without the barriers of being locked into a race entry and logistics (which you note) but I, as in me personally, don't get that mindset. I'm just not wired like that. What everyone else does is of little concern to me so at the end of the day it doesn't matter what I think or what he does. I just don't get it. All I'm sayin'.

"half-marathon" refers to a distance of 13.1 miles. period. if you did it in training, or in an organized event, you still did 13.1 miles.

sounds to me that you are also saying one did an "ironman" ONLY if it was done in a WTC Ironman-branded event, and not in some other iron-distance event (and certainly not in a training session). am i wrong on that one ?
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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But doing it on a trainer isn't like doing a real Ironman.

29 years and counting
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [adablduya1] [ In reply to ]
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adablduya1 wrote:

"half-marathon" refers to a distance of 13.1 miles. period. if you did it in training, or in an organized event, you still did 13.1 miles.

Not exactly. A half marathon is a running event with a standardized distance of 13.1 miles. Running 13.1 miles by yourself is not an event. This is a stupid debate we are having regardless. :-)

Favorite Gear: Dimond | Cadex | Desoto Sport | Hoka One One
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [M~] [ In reply to ]
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M~ wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
M~ wrote:

Fair enough. Maybe next time you won't feel the need to piss on his parade though. :)

WORST. PARADE. EVER.

3SIXTY5cycling.com
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [The GMAN] [ In reply to ]
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The GMAN wrote:
adablduya1 wrote:


"half-marathon" refers to a distance of 13.1 miles. period. if you did it in training, or in an organized event, you still did 13.1 miles.


Not exactly. A half marathon is a running event with a standardized distance of 13.1 miles. Running 13.1 miles by yourself is not an event. This is a stupid debate we are having regardless. :-)

so you say. and, so i say. i sleep just fine with my view of it, as i'm sure you do, too. matter of opinion, so you don't get to say who's wrong or right. and yes, i will agree this is a silly debate. i'm done.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [M~] [ In reply to ]
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M~ wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
I don't see the point but to each their own.


1. No entry fees
2. True test of mental and physical toughness (nobody to draft off of, nobody cheering you on)
3. If you need to bail for whatever reason you aren't out $700+
4. If you need to move your race from one week to another, pretty easy to do.
5. Do it in the off season when you don't get hosed on hotel fees.

I could likely go on if you want.

I don't see the point either. This is like the question "If a tree falls in the woods, but there is no one around to hear it, did it make a noise?"

Regardless, the paradox of #3 is that the probability, at least for me, of bailing out of a non-event halfway through the run is close to 100% while the probability of bailing out an event where I paid $700+ is exactly 0% (at least to date).
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I say go for it. Like Sir Edmund Hillary supposedly said, you can "because it's there."

I'm planning on doing something like this myself this Fall on the same day as Kona. I've done stupid crap like a sprint triathlon every day for a week at the gym, but never anything this long. It won't be a true Ironman 140.6 distance, but instead will take the Leadman Bend Epic 250 approach, where it will be an extra long swim and bike, with a shorter run totaling 250 km.

I've got a friend to kayak alongside of me for the swim across a local reservoir (about a 2.5 mile swim) to the park where we host Toughman Indiana. I'll have the bike chained up there, ready to go.

The bike and run will be self-supported, using my house as T2 and gas stations as aid stations. I haven't picked the destination for the bike yet, but I'm contemplating riding the MTB to a couple of nearby trails and doing a lap or two around each trail to make the mileage. It might be difficult to do it as a MTB event if the trails are closed due to water, so I'll have a plan B for the tri bike.

I hope to finish it up using a variation of the Noblesville Mini Marathon course, which I like because it showcases the best features of the town. The finish line will be my mailbox.

Why? I don't know. Just because.

Good luck to you on doing this!

Travis Rassat
Vector Cycle Works
Noblesville, IN
BikeFit Instructor | FMS | F.I.S.T. | IBFI
Toughman Triathlon Series Ambassador
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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Multi loop run course from your backyard is smart. I've done a couple DIY IMs and staying fueled on the run is the most difficult part if you don't have someone handing you fluids every mile. I also think 112 miles on the trainer is insane. Staying motivated to finish an IM distance session on your own is difficult enough without the added mental fatigue of doing the ride on the trainer.
Last edited by: Mark Lemmon: Feb 19, 20 12:30
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I think it depends on if you can race yourself or not or if racing an IM matters to you. I have done plenty of century rides by myself or with my friends, but centuries aren't races. I am not FOP, so when I do a half or a full IM I am basically racing myself. But something about being in the event allows me to push myself much harder than if I did the same course the following weekend. I guess what I pay for is to overcome my lack of self motivation. If I don't pay, I increase the chance I won't put in the proper training, I increase the chance I'll just pull out half way though and I won't push myself as hard during the event. If somehow I did do it by myself on a real course and got a PR, I would say that "counts".

But I will say that 112 miles on a trainer would be tough (unless you don't put resistance on your back wheel, then it can go by really quick.)
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I don't do a lot of triathlon these days, but I've found that doing ultra "fun" runs or fatasses are as much fun or more than some organized races. Plus, it allows me to run in a lot of places that would never allow a race to be held. A group of us ran R2R2R last year and are running trans zion this year. I get to run in Big Bend National Park, etc.

Sure, its a different experience, but at times I enjoy it more. Some friends and I put on our own 70.3 a few years back, and it was great. Sure we had to stop a traffic lights and there were crowds of people cheering us on, but it was a good time. I have enough medals hanging on my wall, so I don't need more to validate my accomplishments.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [chuy] [ In reply to ]
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I dont think MO Farah could claim it but if you want to then I guess it's up to you. I wouldn't be claiming any training pr but that's probably because my training is always so far below my racing that it doesn't become a factor.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [adablduya1] [ In reply to ]
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Hello adablduya1 and All,

I agree with you 'mostly' considering the circumstances .... and applaud the solo efforts ......

..... However at some level the context of 'racing' includes 'mano y mano' competition ....... and solo efforts .... while offering their own requirements for motivation .... have a different context.

Competitive foot racing at higher levels includes blocking, tactics, strategy, drafting, etc. in competition with others.

Do you use Brylcreem? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o6F4GtyRfto Just a little dab'll do ya!

https://brylcreemusa.com/

Cheers, Neal

+1 mph Faster
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [nealhe] [ In reply to ]
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good for you ! very few folks have ever gotten the brylcream reference in my moniker....
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I did an ad-hoc Olympic distance a couple weeks ago, and it was a total blast. I swam in my pool, rode on a trainer, and ran outside. I will probably do a 56 mile / 13.1 mile (all outside) brick this spring with a friend who does not want to swim. (I will likely swim 1.2 before that brick just to claim the ad-hoc half.)

Go for it. It sounds excellent. The only challenge will be hydration support on the run. But, if you are doing multiple loops, you can easily setup the bottles in advance for efficiency.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [adablduya1] [ In reply to ]
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I've run one open HM. I've completed 3 HIM's and several 13.1+ mi. training runs.

If people ask, I tell them I've run ONE HM.

Not saying anyone is right or wrong.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [noofus] [ In reply to ]
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noofus wrote:
chuy wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
I mean, if I run 13.1 miles in training I would never say I ran a half marathon. A half marathon signifies I did an organized race of some sort.


So I guess my 5k PR that I ran on my own at the track shouldn't count because I didn't pay to run it in an organized race? Just as you don't see the point in doing any triathlon on your own, many people don't see the point in paying Ironman 350 dollars for a 70.3 when other race series charge half that for the same distance.


In this situation I have said in the past that my half marathon PR came during a training run. Or in your case I would say my 5k PR came during a solo attempt. I don't see anything wrong with that. However I also wouldn't say I "ran a half marathon today" or whatever.

As for the OP, I also don't quite understand the point. So much about triathlon, especially at longer distances, is the race and the race day experience. I think a lot of that would be lost doing in on your own. However we are all different so who am I to criticize?


But you yourself say 13.1 miles is a half marathon, even if you wont call it that.

So if you drove 100 miles on the freeway do you not call it 100 miles unless it was a race?

ETA for the OP: Go for it and have fun!

But why *just* do an IM? Customise the distances to your favorite long loop rides and runs.
Last edited by: davejustdave: Jan 19, 17 9:44
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [davejustdave] [ In reply to ]
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davejustdave wrote:
noofus wrote:
chuy wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
I mean, if I run 13.1 miles in training I would never say I ran a half marathon. A half marathon signifies I did an organized race of some sort.


So I guess my 5k PR that I ran on my own at the track shouldn't count because I didn't pay to run it in an organized race? Just as you don't see the point in doing any triathlon on your own, many people don't see the point in paying Ironman 350 dollars for a 70.3 when other race series charge half that for the same distance.


In this situation I have said in the past that my half marathon PR came during a training run. Or in your case I would say my 5k PR came during a solo attempt. I don't see anything wrong with that. However I also wouldn't say I "ran a half marathon today" or whatever.

As for the OP, I also don't quite understand the point. So much about triathlon, especially at longer distances, is the race and the race day experience. I think a lot of that would be lost doing in on your own. However we are all different so who am I to criticize?


But you yourself say 13.1 miles is a half marathon, even if you wont call it that.

So if you drove 100 miles on the freeway do you not call it 100 miles unless it was a race?

I guess my point was if someone (at that time) asked me what my half marathon PR was, I would certainly say the time but then not hesitate to say that I ran it in a training run. Something along the lines of "I had a 14 mile training run that just happened to include a PR half marathon"

Or if I decided I wanted to try to PR my 5k and just did it myself based on my Garmin, I wouldn't hide the fact that I did it in a non-race situation.

I don't see it as a bad thing, just a thing.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I wouldn't do that. It takes too long to recover from a full. It will affect your early season racing. And you'd be risking injury for no good reason.

I've done a half on my own. That was easy, logistically speaking. I carried all the nutrition easily and ran where I knew there were water fountains. Would not consider ever doing a full on my own.

Why not enter a local full or a HITS or something like that?
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [nealhe] [ In reply to ]
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but considering the majority of the field in just about every sanctioned ironman are paying $700 to be waddling around for 13+ hours, the context of 'racing' isn't really applicable for most that toe the line.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I was thinking of just doing an ironman on my own.

It's a great idea and one I wish more would do. It shows people are in the sport without having to have their accomplishments validated, a nice change. I think a lot of people compete in triathlons as a goal-oriented sport instead of just for fun.

I did a half-IM on my own a number of times and did the IM bike leg and an off-road marathon on my own. After doing the latter, I never entered a race again. I figured I can get far more enjoyment from doing it on my own and I already had lots of t-shirts.

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Re: do it yourself ironman? [Sanuk] [ In reply to ]
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When you finish, make it official with a do-it-yourself M-Dot tattoo.
Last edited by: Arlington: Jan 19, 17 12:25
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [Sanuk] [ In reply to ]
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I've done this a few times (not the full IM distance) as a dry run leading up to my IM. It was a great way to test endurance, nutrition, set-up, clothing, etc. Instead of distance, I used time. After a few failed attempts at fuel/hydration, I just kept it to loops. For the swim, I did open water for an hour, keeping close the shoreline, going out 800 then coming back. That way, if fit hit the shan, I wasn't a mile out in the middle of the lake. For the bike, it was out 1hr and back (2hr loop) for 5hrs (last loop only an hour). For the run, out 30 min and back for 2hrs. Each loop gave me ability to use my truck as an aid station to exchange bottles, strip off (or put on) clothes. 8hrs total.

Whatever you want to call it shouldn't matter. If you want to call it an IM distance...great. Want to call it a training session (which is what I did)...great. Either way, when you tell your friends what you did over the weekend, whatever you call it, they still think you're nuts!
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [HuffNPuff] [ In reply to ]
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HuffNPuff wrote:
[
I don't see the point either. This is like the question "If a tree falls in the woods, but there is no one around to hear it, did it make a noise?"

The answer to which is...yes, of course it does. Which is the opposite of what you are saying (that a solo ironman makes no "noise"), so I think you need a new cliche analogy.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [skip] [ In reply to ]
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skip wrote:
HuffNPuff wrote:
[
I don't see the point either. This is like the question "If a tree falls in the woods, but there is no one around to hear it, did it make a noise?"


The answer to which is...yes, of course it does. Which is the opposite of what you are saying (that a solo ironman makes no "noise"), so I think you need a new cliche analogy.

The standard philosophical reply is that the air would vibrate but without a receiver then there is no sound. The question is a classic educational debate topic and a PERFECT analogy for discussing the OP's proposal ... which similarly has two sides regarding whether it is a worthwhile pursuit or "counts".
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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If you have your Garmin file, it counts. If not....well, then you might as well call yourself "Kip".

By the way, 112 mi on a trainer is probably the equivalent of about 140+ on the road. I'm a big proponent of using the trainer just for efficiency and safety purposes. But if you're strictly going for the 112 distance, do the ride outside if at all possible.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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len wrote:
I am getting into pretty good shape and there are not many races for the next two months. I could fly to new zealand and race but don't feel like doing it. I was thinking of just doing an ironman on my own. I could swim the distance in my local pool drive 20 min home hop on the trainer for 112 miles and then run a marathon doing multiple loops in the park outside my backyard. I've done one (Muskoka) before I think well below my potential because I bonked in T2 and took almost an hour to recover. I am definitely not anywhere near able to qualify for Kona and won't be unless I get way more committed and at 50 years of age I would be lucky to not get injured trying. Anyone ever done this before?

Of course you can do it. Nothing wrong with that.

Some friends of mine from Norway raced the Norseman course during winter time.
Check out the video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUsAQ47sA9U
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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This all sounds like the big day training from GOING LONG. Sounds fun! I do one on my birthday and call it the OLDMAN (6200 swim, 62 mile bike, 6.2mile run) I started doing it when I turned 62 and kept it there as it is now taking too long to add distance every year (I like to swim, like to bike, and would like to run faster). Or how about a MADMAN (I live in Henderson Nevada): swim in Lake Mead, Ride to Mt. Charleston, then hike up Mt Charleston (18miles to about 12,000 ft). If I ever get around to it I'll get me a fake tattoo of Alfred E. Newman. I keep thinking of doing the Silverman on my own (Maybe some day I'll be too old to think about).
What epic solos have you all done that we all might be interested in?

Have a happy swim, a pleasant ride, and a great run
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [trytri3] [ In reply to ]
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After a few failed attempts at fuel/hydration, I just kept it to loops.

Yeah, my biggest issue was having enough fluids on a self-supported bike and run so also did loops on both.

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Re: do it yourself ironman? [HuffNPuff] [ In reply to ]
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HuffNPuff wrote:
skip wrote:
HuffNPuff wrote:
[
I don't see the point either. This is like the question "If a tree falls in the woods, but there is no one around to hear it, did it make a noise?"


The answer to which is...yes, of course it does. Which is the opposite of what you are saying (that a solo ironman makes no "noise"), so I think you need a new cliche analogy.


The standard philosophical reply is that the air would vibrate but without a receiver then there is no sound. The question is a classic educational debate topic and a PERFECT analogy for discussing the OP's proposal ... which similarly has two sides regarding whether it is a worthwhile pursuit or "counts".

Fair enough. Tree wise, I guess I'm firmly on the side of it making noise in both the philosophical realm and physical world. Whether someone heard it (chose to listen?) is not something that concerns the tree - it did its part, including making the noise. Something like that. So yeah, you're totally right, it is like that question. Can we agree that when the OP completes his workout, there will be plenty of one-handed applause?
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [Travis R] [ In reply to ]
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Travis R wrote:
I say go for it. Like Sir Edmund Hillary supposedly said, you can "because it's there."
!

It was George Mallory who said it.

On topic, if it's not a race, it's a training session.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [HuffNPuff] [ In reply to ]
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HuffNPuff wrote:
M~ wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
I don't see the point but to each their own.


1. No entry fees
2. True test of mental and physical toughness (nobody to draft off of, nobody cheering you on)
3. If you need to bail for whatever reason you aren't out $700+
4. If you need to move your race from one week to another, pretty easy to do.
5. Do it in the off season when you don't get hosed on hotel fees.

I could likely go on if you want.


I don't see the point either. This is like the question "If a tree falls in the woods, but there is no one around to hear it, did it make a noise?"

Regardless, the paradox of #3 is that the probability, at least for me, of bailing out of a non-event halfway through the run is close to 100% while the probability of bailing out an event where I paid $700+ is exactly 0% (at least to date).

Your point about #3 is exactly the reason to do it.

Simplify, Train, Live
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [Mike Prevost] [ In reply to ]
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Mike Prevost wrote:
HuffNPuff wrote:
M~ wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
I don't see the point but to each their own.


1. No entry fees
2. True test of mental and physical toughness (nobody to draft off of, nobody cheering you on)
3. If you need to bail for whatever reason you aren't out $700+
4. If you need to move your race from one week to another, pretty easy to do.
5. Do it in the off season when you don't get hosed on hotel fees.

I could likely go on if you want.


I don't see the point either. This is like the question "If a tree falls in the woods, but there is no one around to hear it, did it make a noise?"

Regardless, the paradox of #3 is that the probability, at least for me, of bailing out of a non-event halfway through the run is close to 100% while the probability of bailing out an event where I paid $700+ is exactly 0% (at least to date).


Your point about #3 is exactly the reason to do it.

But there would be no POINT in doing it since I already know in advance that as soon as I got to that POINT in the run that I would bail because there would be no POINT in completing it. :)
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [skip] [ In reply to ]
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We are in total agreement on that. And I will offer my one handed applause in advance if that helps the OP.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I'm not going to read through the thread or argue, but synthetic did this a couple years ago, got himself a clock and everything if you want to dig that topic up. had some good insight

_____________________________________
What are you people, on dope?

—Mr. Hand
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I know someone who did one on his 40th birthday, did the swim at his local pool and then did the bike and run on his own (he was also a multiple Kona qualifier/finisher).

I used to do a DIY half-ironman when I was training for IM to get a sense of where I was fitness-wise, would swim at the Y and map out a multi-loop bike and run course from my house; also did it with an OW swim at Walden Pind and mapped ride/run from there.



"You can never win or lose if you don't run the race." - Richard Butler

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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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Do it! Races are technically a long training day.
I've done similar simulation in order to work out 'A' race pace and nutrition at race pace. Be sure to work out your nutrition in the logistics, water and he'll stops on the run, - you would be my hero if you do 112 mi on a trainer, most I've tolerated has been 3hrs.
happy training!
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [scofflaw] [ In reply to ]
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scofflaw wrote:
I'm not going to read through the thread or argue, but synthetic did this a couple years ago, got himself a clock and everything if you want to dig that topic up. had some good insight

yup, my wife also did the same. when we knew we could accomplish the simple feat of 'finishing'... we signed up for a real race, and both did 2-3 hours faster.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [satanellus] [ In reply to ]
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satanellus wrote:
Travis R wrote:
I say go for it. Like Sir Edmund Hillary supposedly said, you can "because it's there."
!

It was George Mallory who said it.

On topic, if it's not a race, it's a training session.

Is a time trial a race?
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [M~] [ In reply to ]
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M~ wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
I don't see the point but to each their own.


2. True test of mental and physical toughness

I'll say! I know I'd fail that test.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [HuffNPuff] [ In reply to ]
Quote | Reply
HuffNPuff wrote:
Mike Prevost wrote:
HuffNPuff wrote:
M~ wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
I don't see the point but to each their own.


1. No entry fees
2. True test of mental and physical toughness (nobody to draft off of, nobody cheering you on)
3. If you need to bail for whatever reason you aren't out $700+
4. If you need to move your race from one week to another, pretty easy to do.
5. Do it in the off season when you don't get hosed on hotel fees.

I could likely go on if you want.


I don't see the point either. This is like the question "If a tree falls in the woods, but there is no one around to hear it, did it make a noise?"

Regardless, the paradox of #3 is that the probability, at least for me, of bailing out of a non-event halfway through the run is close to 100% while the probability of bailing out an event where I paid $700+ is exactly 0% (at least to date).


Your point about #3 is exactly the reason to do it.


But there would be no POINT in doing it since I already know in advance that as soon as I got to that POINT in the run that I would bail because there would be no POINT in completing it. :)

Agreed. If you don't have the mental toughness to do this, and you know it, then attempting it is a bad idea. On the other hand, those of us who don't need the crowds, the recognition, the finishers medal, can readily see the value in stepping up to a big challenge with nothing to gain other than the self satisfaction that you did something hard when you didn't have to. You rose to the challenge and did not quit, even when nobody was around to watch. To those who don't understand the value in that, too bad for you. You are missing something.

Simplify, Train, Live
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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In the trail running world we call this a "fatass <Enter Distance/Event Here>". I've done several 50k's and 70.3's similar to this, grab some friends and make a training day of it. Personally a 140.6 is a little too long for me though I did discuss it with some friends. When people ask me I just say I did a fatass <distance> and then have to explain what I mean by fatass.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [Mike Prevost] [ In reply to ]
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Mike Prevost wrote:
Agreed. If you don't have the mental toughness to do this, and you know it, then attempting it is a bad idea. On the other hand, those of us who don't need the crowds, the recognition, the finishers medal, can readily see the value in stepping up to a big challenge with nothing to gain other than the self satisfaction that you did something hard when you didn't have to. You rose to the challenge and did not quit, even when nobody was around to watch. To those who don't understand the value in that, too bad for you. You are missing something.

Be careful not to torque your shoulder patting yourself on the back at the same time you are denigrating the perspective of others while making gross assumptions about what motivates them. My perspective is mine only, but equally valid to yours. I train to race in organized events both large and small. So by definition, if I'm not racing then I'm training. And following the precept to not leave your race in the training log; I think completing a full distance on your own is counterproductive to performing your best in an organized race...hence, pointless from my view. I would get no satisfaction from a solo, counterproductive training effort that hinders my ultimate goals. I learned this the hard way decades ago when experimenting with overdistance training for the marathon. I once ran 32 miles in training to prepare for a marathon ... neither satisfying, nor helpful ... although I eventually cracked 2:30 in the marathon so there's that. To this day, I do not consider that I've ever completed an ultra because that was merely training and not an organized event which requires competing with others under the same circumstances, hoopla or no hoopla.

If the OP and yourself get a warm fuzzy from a long day in the training office, then I say go for it. But it's definitely not for me; and presumably many others who feel the same as I do.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [HuffNPuff] [ In reply to ]
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HuffNPuff wrote:

If the OP and yourself get a warm fuzzy from a long day in the training office, then I say go for it. But it's definitely not for me; and presumably many others who feel the same as I do.

Then why even come on here and take a crap on his parade? Why not just say Good luck, I hope it is fun for you. Instead of doing what you and another have done....
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [HuffNPuff] [ In reply to ]
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HuffNPuff wrote:
Be careful not to torque your shoulder patting yourself on the back.... although I eventually cracked 2:30 in the marathon so there's that.

HuffNPuff wrote:
Be careful not to...denigrat[e] the perspective of others while making gross assumptions about what motivates them...If the OP and yourself get a warm fuzzy from a long day in the training office

Oh the irony!

To answer the OP's actual question - "anyone ever done this before" [not: please make me feel like a chump] - yes, I've done it. For the very reasons you and others have mentioned. I'm not making a living at this, so why spend $2,000+ to travel to and compete in a race every time I want to gratify my desire for suffering or self accomplishment. Worse yet is spending less money - HITS, for example - and basically doing a solo day anyway. I agree with another poster, though, in suggesting that you consider other distances that might not exactly measure out to an Ironman, but might offer a more interesting route or a more unique challenge. Good luck in whatever you choose.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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Yes! It wasn't at all like you're planning, but last summer the only local long distance race in our mostly very rural area was cancelled, and a friend of mine who had been intending to race decided not to quit his training or travel to an expensive race further afield, but instead hosted his own race at his farm. Only a handful of friends and his wife joined him for parts of his distances, but someone was with him at all times and it's all on his Garmin and he actually went faster than he'd ever gone before, finishing under 11 hours. Everyone involved had a great time, and in fact there's conversation about doing it again this summer.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [brooktrout] [ In reply to ]
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That is the most awesome post in this thread. Thanks for everyone who posted. Today just to stir the pot with the guys who were arguing about half-marathon pbs not in a race I did a mini-taper this week and attempted a middle age half-marathon pb as a time trial. My pb is 1:46:30 and I did 1:47:10. Considering my pb was on a course with a significant net downhill I am calling it a pb. I turned around an old race number and sharpied in the name of my race and even pinned it on my t-shirt. I did multiple loops in the park behind my house and a few people thought I was in an actual race. Then I had a few beers and a major nap. Brooktrout is my favourite fish especially the little ones who live in small creeks.


brooktrout wrote:
Yes! It wasn't at all like you're planning, but last summer the only local long distance race in our mostly very rural area was cancelled, and a friend of mine who had been intending to race decided not to quit his training or travel to an expensive race further afield, but instead hosted his own race at his farm. Only a handful of friends and his wife joined him for parts of his distances, but someone was with him at all times and it's all on his Garmin and he actually went faster than he'd ever gone before, finishing under 11 hours. Everyone involved had a great time, and in fact there's conversation about doing it again this summer.

They constantly try to escape from the darkness outside and within
Dreaming of systems so perfect that no one will need to be good T.S. Eliot

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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I am in the process of doing a 70.3 on my own. All indoors. I am doing the Boulder 70.3 in August. This is my second year in the sport of triathlon and have completed several sprints and an Olympic distance. I'm using this indoor "race" as a dress rehearsal of sorts and to also see where I'm at, and see what I need to work on for the outdoor race in August.

It's a little crazy, especially riding 56 miles on a spin bike, but hey, the work is real and I feel beat after every workout! One of my friends is doing this with me. I'm also picking up my first 13.1 along the way. I've even scheduled a virtual event for that- so it's "real" to me.

I struggled at first with the concept of real vs. on your own/virtual/indoor. But I get the same benefits I would get at a regular open race, without the stress and anxiety. I know for some those are motivators, for me I'd rather do it as smoothly as possible. After this run through, I definitely will look into organizing more smaller, neighborhood races- indoor and out. I would also like to get the help from USA Triathlon. Good luck with your race!!!
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I do a few Olympic do it yourself training workouts, but since I have to drive to and from the pool, and take my time during the bike/run transition it’s just really a tough training day. As others have said, the time to recover, and subsequent lost training makes a training IM sort of impractical. Three of us once did a half IM; pool swim and had to drive to T1, but we still called it a half IM.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [vonschnapps] [ In reply to ]
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I'm doing my own 70.3 next month. Reasons:
1. I couldn't find a race that fit my requirements.
2. I didn't want to spend the money on flights, hotels etc. just for the sake of it.
3. I'm moving house after 4 years and wanted one last big day on familiar roads.

My family will support me - I'll swim in the local beach, then jump on the bike in the car park. T2 and finish will be in my front yard so family don't have to hang around after the swim is done. All will be in strava, no breaks. I love to train, but need a goal to keep me focused.

My race site: https://racesandplaces.wixsite.com/racesandplaces
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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See Mark Lemmon Soloman. I believe he did a solo Ironman in Hawaii a day or two before the Ironman in the mid to late 90's.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [trischolar34] [ In reply to ]
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trischolar34 wrote:
I am in the process of doing a 70.3 on my own. All indoors.

This sounds cool! You could get one of those "0.0" stickers on your car - lol.



https://www.strava.com/...tes/zachary_mckinney
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [HuffNPuff] [ In reply to ]
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HuffNPuff wrote:
I don't see the point either. This is like the question "If a tree falls in the woods, but there is no one around to hear it, did it make a noise?"

Not to change the topic on such a wonderful thread, but the surprising answer to this question is no, it doesn't.

Strava
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [plant_based] [ In reply to ]
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I don't do it for the stickers.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [trischolar34] [ In reply to ]
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trischolar34 wrote:
I don't do it for the stickers.

I know bro, just messing with you. It sounds like some motivating training!

https://www.strava.com/...tes/zachary_mckinney
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [kornpett] [ In reply to ]
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Exactly!
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [Mike Prevost] [ In reply to ]
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I agree. While there is something satisfying doing it in an event against other athletes to compete against, the distances still count, and in many ways it is even harder because of the lack of support, lack of cheering crowds, lack of a dedicated course, no drafting (assuming you ride outside). There is a wheelbarrow of pride in both.

The more people I encounter the more I love my cats.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [plant_based] [ In reply to ]
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It is man. Thanks What's crazy is that the training is still real as far as effort goes. And by sticking to a plan it keeps me focused and helps me set a goal. By including this little "race" during my indoor training, it will only get me in better shape for the outdoor season, which is right around the corner. And the Boulder 70.3 is very real. I'm pumped!
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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In Australia we call these fatass events. A quick google says they are everywhere.

No entry fee. No prizes. Just you / and mates.

My suggestion would be to actually do it over a weekend first time out as a trial.

Friday night swim
Sat bike
Sun run

Will make it easier and safer. You don't want to be running late without help around junst in case stuff goes wrong and you also don't want to swim open water in the dark or wait for a pool to open.

Rhymenocerus wrote:
I think everyone should consult ST before they do anything.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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len wrote:
I am getting into pretty good shape and there are not many races for the next two months. I could fly to new zealand and race but don't feel like doing it. I was thinking of just doing an ironman on my own. I could swim the distance in my local pool drive 20 min home hop on the trainer for 112 miles and then run a marathon doing multiple loops in the park outside my backyard. I've done one (Muskoka) before I think well below my potential because I bonked in T2 and took almost an hour to recover. I am definitely not anywhere near able to qualify for Kona and won't be unless I get way more committed and at 50 years of age I would be lucky to not get injured trying. Anyone ever done this before?

I reckon it would be a good thing to do.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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len wrote:
I bonked in T2

How can you bonk in a transition!? On the bike, yes. Late in the run, yes. But bonk while you take off your helmet...

Well, but seriously - why not. I run my own marathon from time to time, did my own half IM training day, couple parts of it with friends, do breaks whenever I want, take it easy and just enjoy it. I would just wonder if 5 or so hours on the trainer are enjoyable. But if that is the only option, why not. And running loops with plenty of fuel at your personal aid station sounds very reasonable, unless you have to run 52* 0.5 mile loop ;-)
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [motorcity] [ In reply to ]
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Some of the Strava based event startup companies may turn this debate on its head once you can pay a few bucks and go do something via that avenue.

It isn’t competitive (definition wise) but it is a challenge. Look at it more like a mountaineer or explorer than from a “stick and ball” sports view.

Seek reward in it that way.

Ignore folks going out of their way to call it a training day. Call it your challenge day.

Nobody denigrates the guys and gals going on round the globe efforts without an “event”.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [chuy] [ In reply to ]
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I think doing any race distance as a personal test is nice to prove one's ability to themselves. So on that end great! Go for it.

Regarding PRs, I would not consider any time not done in an actual competitive event as a PR. A Half Marathon is an event, a Marathon is an event, and Ironman is an event.

I run 13.1 miles or more many many times a year, but I only run a couple Half Marathons each year and one or two Marathons. I look to those races to achieve my PRs.

I looked up Eliud Kipchoge's PRs on World Athletics. As I would expect, it lists his Marathon PR as 2:01:39, not 1:59:40.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I've done 10 self-supported Ironmans and even a self-supported Ultraman. PM me if you need tips on how or you have questions. They are amazingly fun and satisfying. :)

And I agree with Matt - My fastest Ironman time might be a self-supported one, but I wouldn't really go around saying that's my official PR. But if you do a self-supported Ironman with a few or more other people and the vibe is competitive, then I could possibly see it as a PR. When you have to race against others on the same course, it's you against the course and the dynamics of others on the same course. I definitely think self-supported is harder, but when you tell people your PR for an "Ironman", everybody is picturing you battling it out on a course with lots of other people on the same time.

----------------------------------------------------------
Zen and the Art of Triathlon. Strava Workout Log
Interviews with Chris McCormack, Helle Frederikson, Angela Naeth, and many more.
http://www.zentriathlon.com
Last edited by: ZenTriBrett: Feb 20, 20 8:55
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [synthetic] [ In reply to ]
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I like this idea. As a matter of fact, my husband doesn't think I have any business signing up for an Ironman event unless I actually can do the distance in "practice." If you guys do Lake Placid, let me know, I might do it too if it was later this year!
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [AquaBikePatti65] [ In reply to ]
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AquaBikePatti65 wrote:

I like this idea. As a matter of fact, my husband doesn't think I have any business signing up for an Ironman event unless I actually can do the distance in "practice." If you guys do Lake Placid, let me know, I might do it too if it was later this year!

A friend of mine did one of my self-supported Ironmans with me, except cut the run down to 13 miles. His goal was to use it as a training day for his upcoming Ironman Florida. He was able to test out all of his nutrition and gear, but not get too beat up from the run. He turned around a month later an PR'd at Florida with a sub-10. Really smart idea!

----------------------------------------------------------
Zen and the Art of Triathlon. Strava Workout Log
Interviews with Chris McCormack, Helle Frederikson, Angela Naeth, and many more.
http://www.zentriathlon.com
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [vonschnapps] [ In reply to ]
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vonschnapps wrote:
I do a few Olympic do it yourself training workouts, but since I have to drive to and from the pool, and take my time during the bike/run transition it’s just really a tough training day. As others have said, the time to recover, and subsequent lost training makes a training IM sort of impractical. Three of us once did a half IM; pool swim and had to drive to T1, but we still called it a half IM.

Why did you have to drive to T1? T1 can be at the pool, yes the start location might not be ideal due to traffic , but it's still distance with a clock running. Lock bike in car or on bike rack during transitions
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [The GMAN] [ In reply to ]
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That others know what you do is of great concern to you. Ironic.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [synthetic] [ In reply to ]
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synthetic wrote:
vonschnapps wrote:
I do a few Olympic do it yourself training workouts, but since I have to drive to and from the pool, and take my time during the bike/run transition it’s just really a tough training day. As others have said, the time to recover, and subsequent lost training makes a training IM sort of impractical. Three of us once did a half IM; pool swim and had to drive to T1, but we still called it a half IM.


Why did you have to drive to T1? T1 can be at the pool, yes the start location might not be ideal due to traffic , but it's still distance with a clock running. Lock bike in car or on bike rack during transitions

We were thinking of each having a SUV in the Y parking lot, off to the side, and using that as transition but opted for a transition setup in the driveway of one of our houses a few miles away. And we actually didn’t run from the Y pool deck to the car, more like a fast walk. We also all stayed together during the bike and most of the run. Basically a Half IM training event.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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I openly applaud your gumption. I did this with some long trail runs; heck, I still remember those solo efforts. I still believe they made me tougher. I say, HECK YES!!!! Give your effort an official race title; mine was the DaveManCaveMan. tell as many friends as possible, have them check up on you during the event. Does the event "really count as a real event?" of course it does, if you do it sincerely. and yes, you get braggin' rights. I will shave down, put on a texas flag speedo, hold up a stupid sign, and come support you.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [M~] [ In reply to ]
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So why does anybody ever enter races? Isn’t it always “cheaper” just to do it on your own? Zero chance I ever do an Ironman distance without the pomp and circumstance of the actual race.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [triguy86] [ In reply to ]
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I did a DIY half IM as a test before signing up for a full IM as I’d never taken part in any form of triathlon or race and it was a free, convenient way of getting a feeling for what it was about before taking the plunge.

A DIY full IM would be another matter though - I think it would be hard to push 100% and one would end up just treating it as a training brick.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [len] [ In reply to ]
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Lots of people do it.Some even break records while they are at it.

https://raitratasepp.ee/...riathlons-in-40-days
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [Jigsy] [ In reply to ]
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Good luck!! I'm doing one in a couple months, indoors!
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [spockwaslen] [ In reply to ]
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Thanks to OP and all other athletes who chimed in with fun and positive stories of long-arse <events>, great reading and motivation. Because all 2020 races cancelled, and my HIM #2 in Sep likely cancelled, I decided to do a selfie solo HIM distance. Did about 73 miles total on the event, and had a great time.

Edit: dropped the race report, realize it doesn't belong here

Our tri training team has been doing mini-events also, sprint and Oly. Casual not-timed transitions.
Last edited by: ssylwester: Aug 8, 20 6:42
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [ssylwester] [ In reply to ]
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I did my own HIM last April, glad I did as not much else around and it keeps the streak going. Gearing up for an end of year Marathon for the streak too.

My race site: https://racesandplaces.wixsite.com/racesandplaces
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [spockwaslen] [ In reply to ]
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The Vegan Cyclist did a "Off the couch Ironman" video, its well worth the 38 minutes. Best part is the end with his son (about 29 1/2 minutes in if you want short version). Certainly well worth it in VC's view just for that! Hope it goes well for you!

OFF THE COUCH IRONMAN (Road Cyclist tries an Ironman triathlon on NO TRAINING!)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R95fOvpinVs
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [abrowntd] [ In reply to ]
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Nice.
Thanks for pasting.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [spockwaslen] [ In reply to ]
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I was training for what would have been my first tri in 10 years. It was a 1/2 IM scheduled for April 5.
I carried all I needed for the bike.
My run was two 5 mile loops and a 3 mile loop, all going past my house so I could top off my bottles.
You could loop the bike for topping off your water/fuel.
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Re: do it yourself ironman? [The GMAN] [ In reply to ]
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The GMAN wrote:
M~ wrote:
The GMAN wrote:
I don't see the point but to each their own.


1. No entry fees
2. True test of mental and physical toughness (nobody to draft off of, nobody cheering you on)
3. If you need to bail for whatever reason you aren't out $700+
4. If you need to move your race from one week to another, pretty easy to do.
5. Do it in the off season when you don't get hosed on hotel fees.

I could likely go on if you want.

Still not seeing the point but I don't really care what others do. I mean, if I run 13.1 miles in training I would never say I ran a half marathon. A half marathon signifies I did an organized race of some sort. Otherwise, it's just a training run.

I get the OP wants to test himself without the barriers of being locked into a race entry and logistics (which you note) but I, as in me personally, don't get that mindset. I'm just not wired like that. What everyone else does is of little concern to me so at the end of the day it doesn't matter what I think or what he does. I just don't get it. All I'm sayin'.
I am genuinely curious if you "don't see the point", why not scroll on by this thread?
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