How many races should you do prior to your A race?
I am doing IMCDA in late June and I am also signed up for Florida Half Ironman in late May. Should I be picking up another race prior to CDA? I found a 1/2 IM in late April…
Is this to much racing??
Should I concentrate on my long miles instead of racing??
By the way this is my second season of Ironman racing…
<< How many races should you do prior to your A race? >>
There is no magic number of races for you to do prior to your AAA race at IMCdA. The answer – strictly based in results – would be whatever best suits you personally, your fitness, experience, ability to recover and your preps.
<< I am doing IMCDA in late June and I am also signed up for Florida Half Ironman in late May. Should I be picking up another race prior to CDA? I found a 1/2 IM in late April… >>
You don’t say how many IMs you have completed (well), but doing a HIM four weeks out from your AAA IM is pushing it, especially for a second year athlete. If you are very fit you may be able to pull it off and not negatively affect your Ironman, but I would prefer to see you race a HIM 6 to 8 weeks out at this stage of your career. I am guessing you are investing much, finacially and emotionally in your AAA race. If so, the worst case scenario would be to show up tired or watch the race, injured. I would recommend the HIM in late April over the one in May – but not both. I would use the last 4-5 weeks to be certain you have nailed an IM race simulation ride and your fueling plan.
<< Should I concentrate on my long miles instead of racing?? >>
The question is not whether to go long over racing. The question is how do you best get prepared for your IM? You are asking for generic answers that may not best serve your situation, so I am suggesting the most conservative path. The truth is that once an athlete reaches a very high level of fitness he/she has greater latitude when shaping an ATP and races. Your task is to objectively view your own fitness or have someone you trust and who knows you, a mentor, guide you. Good luck!
KP