Okay, my favorite distace for a triathlon is the 1/2 Ironman. I have done a few, but usually always the same: Blackwater Eagleman in MD. I have also done Pigman in Iowa. These races are GREAT and I will go back to Blackwater again in 2006 (got my Kona slots there last year and this year-passed this year).
Next year I want to do a ton of 1/2 Ironmans — what are your favorites? Traveling is not an issue, but I need to stay in the US. Oh, and I am in the midwest, so super early in the season is tough.
Yes, I have heard (of course) that Buffalo Springs is excellent. I struggle with it being 2 weeks after Blackwater Eagleman. I can not recover that quickly. However, I WILL do that 1/2 IM someday! Thank you.
timberman…great organization, beautiful area, challenging course, well stocked aid stations and post race grub. also surprisingly strong pro field shows up for this race, which i think speaks volumes of the quality of this event.
Well, Muncie endurathon is always well run and large with lots of talent. Little Smokies - VERY tough (4k climbing), but small and triathlon at its roots as many racers are there for a 3 day affair doing more than IM distance total. It is early though
-Little Smokies; Portsmouth, OH, HFP, Memorial weekend
-Steelhead; St. Joseph/Benton Harbor, MI, Capri, first weekend of August
-Lansing Legislator; Lansing, MI, 3 Disiplines, second weekend of August
i’ve done the first and last and the talk up on the Steelhead is impressive. Little Smokies just plain beats you up. Lansing Legislator is at a great venue with a fast course.
Gulf Coast Triathlon in Panama City, FL (Redneck Riviera). Generally a beautiful swim off white sand beach; flat fast ride (one moderately rough section) and a well supported run that circles through St Andrews State Park–which is where we usually camp when we go down to P.C.
I’m certainly biased, but I’d put Timberman and Mooseman up at the top…
Beware, we’re about to announce another new Half IM/Oly/Short course festival for next year, early season in the Southwest. Fantastic venue!!! News shortly…That’ll be sure to make the list as well.
Chatuge Challenge 1/2 - Hayesville, NC / Hiawassee, GA
All of these have scenic bike courses from gently rolling (SC) to mountainous (Chatuge). DeGray & Duke are moderately hilly. All have the propensity for a hot run. Auburn Tri in California is a challenge, and very scenic (previously World’s Toughest Half). For next year, I’m considering the Kinetic Half in Spotsylvania, VA. It’s in April, though, so may be a bit early for you?
