Those of you who have done the Great Illini Challenge, what was your take on it? Just curious as it would be close enough to do if I could work into my schedule. Thanks!
I noticed that nobody had replied to your post. I have not raced the half with these guys and this is the first year for the full. So I can not comment on the race itself, but I can tell you that these guys put together good races. I really enjoy racing there races, it will not be a WTC or NAS IM but I am sure everybody will have fun, and that it will be a good course. I heard very good things about last years 1/2 and I am sure the full will be good.
Mike
Thanks for your input. It may be something I will do afterall.
As of right now I am planning on doing the full IM distance next year, just on base training,if they have it again. I am doing IMWIS this year, I think I may take a year off from the high profile, sign up a year in advance, races and actually just try to have fun next year. Racing for fun and spending my time training because I want to, not because I have to for a race that is a year away. I have missed a lot of shorter, fun local races the last couple of years because of IM training. If you do it please let me know how the race turns out. I think I saw on the forum that they have just over 80 people signed up for the full, so it may be small, but that might not be all bad. If you decide to do it best of luck to you.
Mike
I did the Great Illini last year and loved it!! It is SUPER low-key and no pressure race. Swim distance was off (short), but they (Race directors) said it would be fixed this year. The course is flat and HOT and windy. Last year it was like an oven…you know how mid-Illinois can get in September. No problems on the course as far as support and it is small enough that you can really just focus on YOU. No marshalls - but I never saw anyone drafting. GOOD group of folks and racers. Definitely do it. I was supposed to race and do a talk at the dinner this year, but we have a wedding in Boulder I can’t miss.
Good luck!
I’ve heard great things about the RD and the events he puts on. The website is very good - especially the course maps. I’m looking forward to doing it next month. I wouldn’t be surprised if some folks from IMKFC will be there as well when the heat makes it unbearable and unsafe to race. Not a bad plan B if you ask me.
See you at the Great Illini
Hans
If my foot heals up by then I will make the drive from Chicago. Until then the season is pretty much over as far as running goes.
That race looks like the last good opportunity to race with in the or so hours drive from Chicago.
Paul.
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Anyone end up doing this race?
I didn’t after all. Decided to do a marathon in November instead.
I did the full Iron, my first, and thought it was great.
If you are interested here is a link to my race report and some pictures of my day.
RACE REPORT