So I’m all signed up for the Breck Epic 6 day MTB stage race (251 miles, 42K’ ascent) and I’m toying with the idea of registering for Ironman Louisville as this will likely be the only full IM I could make it to next year. The problem is that it is 9 days after Breck Epic. I’m wondering if the high altitude racing (9,600’) would offset some/most of the lack of bike taper. I do think that it would hurt my performance (I’m not KQ material, probably around a 12 hour guy, I’ll find out at IMFL), but I’m wondering how much. Thoughts?
Anyone?
Bueller???
My guess is if you train well for an IM and taper for the bike race. (With the mindset of recovery as best you can between each days). Then you simply do all recovery workouts the 9 days between you could probably still race ok. Assuming you don’t get any injures from the mountain bike race. But my guess is it won’t be very enjoyable and your legs will be dead either before you even get off the bike (Its a hilly hot bike course, I know I’ve ridden it twice and raced it once.) or only a few miles into the run. That race is always hot, so any fatigue you bring into the race is going to show up quickly.
If you don’t mind walking and are just there to finish then go for it. If you are serious about doing well at the mountain bike event, I don’t see that happening if you have in the back of your mind. " I have to save yourself for an Ironman in 9 days…"
Why not try to get in IMAZ next year? I am doing Louisville again and hope to get in to IMAZ.
Anyone?
Bueller???
Yeah its possible. Yes you might get injured, Yes you won’t be as fast as with a proper taper. Yes I’d plan on walking/deathmarching a lot of the marathon.
Thanks for your input. I haven’t even done my first and I’m trying to get on board with a one IM a year program. AZ is a long haul for me. I am only considering Louisville (bad timing, short drive) because I live about 2.5 hours away. Also on the radar: IMTX (good timing, long drive).
Where do you live? I live about 2.5 hours away from Louisville myself.
Northwest KY, about 45 minutes from Evansville, IN.
You?
I live in Danville. I was eyeing Texas, but think I am going to hit up REV3 Knoxville in May, Muncie 70.3 in July, and IM Louisville in August. IMAZ in Nov if my fingers are fast enough.