Ahhh the good ol days ;-) They're were definitely a lot fewer races and fewer triathletes in general back in late 80s and early 90s. I still take pride in keeping things simple and low cost. The KQ days are done for me (thanks Crohns!) so even more so is a lifestyle and stay fit. I am guessing with IM, 2 halves, and some other sport specific things next year - along with pool - I'll spend about 2k. We take the camper with us so lodging isnt too bad,as the mrs loves camper travel.
Maybe we have just reached terminal velocity on participation based on fees and all the options available to those who don't find tri their favorite. Still cheaper than many hobbies (golf, boating, cars, etc) and good for you, especially as you age with the cross training
All that said, with a grad student child doing her first races the price would have been an issue if we didn't have a pile of hand me down gear.
Banger
Maybe we have just reached terminal velocity on participation based on fees and all the options available to those who don't find tri their favorite. Still cheaper than many hobbies (golf, boating, cars, etc) and good for you, especially as you age with the cross training
All that said, with a grad student child doing her first races the price would have been an issue if we didn't have a pile of hand me down gear.
Banger