I’m trying to decide on which race/vacation to do next year. China may be a little early in the season and require a compu-trainer and/or some serious hours on the trainer/XC skis, but it can be turned into a trip to Hong Kong, Beijing, etc as well.
Has anyone travelled to Hainan Island and Yalong Bay in China? What were your impressions, experiences? It looks like an amazing place to race after a cold Canadian winter (same latitude as Hawaii). Check out www.ironmanchina.com
I know there is plenty of info on IM Germany on various threads, but anyone race this year? Impressions, experiences?
Just got back from Germany and thought the race was excellent and an incredible experience. Top notch race organization and direction. The huge number of spectators on the course was amazing and for much of the bike you felt like you were in the Tour. Frankfurt is very nice city and we really enjoyed our time there. I would highly recommend the race…I want to go back! Let me know if you have any questions.
Haven’t done either, but another poster has raised the question as to whether or not IM Japan exists. How about you do that one and report back? Besides, Japan kicks ass!!! Coolass country, without compare.
The site is old but you can go here to see pictures and info from the old Hainan Discovery race, same race director, This race was the test for setting up the Ironman there.
I visited Hainan many years ago, before it had really gotten established as in international destination. It was still a very sleepy place, populated by longtime locals and a few early pioneers who could see the prospects for the future. And as soon as I checked in to a hotel, one of those pioneers would call the room and ask if I needed any company for the night. How thoughtful!
I thought the terrain and scenery were lovely. I traveled there by boat from Guangzhou to Haikou in the north, took a bus to Sanya, then flew from Sanya to Haikou and back to Guangzhou, so I got to see it all from the ground and the air. I’m definitely penciling it in for 2007 as next year’s IM is spoken for.