In Reply To:
The writing is on the wall. This is what it says: - 101 has a distance that will likely appeal to all those who have already done Ironman/IMNA/WTC events.
- 101 will appeal to these athletes because of the frustrations they have had with IMNA/WTC/Ironman events.
- There has been little or no real competition for IMNA/WTC/Ironman events until 101. There is a "Coke" but no "Pepsi". 101 is the "Pepsi" to WTC/IMNA's "Coke".
- 101 will pioneer media coverage in real time with internet coverage- the new media of choice among the athletes doing the event. Everyone will want to be in the show.
- 101 is coming along when the timing is really right.
I'm pretty excited about this 101 series...
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What frustrations are there with Ironman? Talk to some Ironman finishers (outside of the overly negative and contagious opinions of many on this forum) and most love the event, the spectacle, and even the human interest.
The swag at Ironman is pretty good including pre-race meal, headsweats hat, technical running shirt, Ford triathlon transition bag, finishers medal, great support on the race course, etc.
Media coverage. Let's face it, triathlon is not a spectator sport. Maybe when there is live athlete tracking of their every step via active RFID chip on their ankle, but not until some technology helps it. Think about how in-car camera technology changed NASCAR. 101 needs to put a lipstick camera on every pro riders aero bars. Then, we will have excitement in racing. Plus, any successes 101 has with live coverage could and will easily be replicated to any other triathlon event organization, like Ironman or LifeTime Fitness, etc.
I do think your first statement is right on the money. After doing the Ironman, this distance will be great as a competitive distance for experienced athletes.
I'm excited about the event too. Although I hope they decide to lengthen the swim.
Holmes Beach, just over the causeway from Brandenton is a great beach with plenty of rental properties. There is a great little restaurant/bar called the Sandbar that is a local favorite. Rent a boat when you are there as there are a couple islands or keys nearby that are surrounded by crystal clear waters. Nothing at these remote islands but yourself, your bride, and of course.... 100 other boaters. But, still a great destination city for the triathlon.