If WTC/IMNA makes such a big deal about mass starts for their IM races, why do they do waves for 1/2 IMs such as California and Florida? I could see an argument about a 1/2IM swim being too congested because of the shorter distance, but a lot of IMs are two-loop swims.
What’s the deal?
-C
My best guess is that people think of 1/2IM’s differently than IM’s. The 1/2 is a “race”; the IM is an “experience”. For the latter a single clock is thought to be important, but for the former it’s not.
That’s about the only thing I can think of. Personally I don’t think wave starts for IM’s would be a bad idea.
2.4 miles is twice as much distance to spread the field apart before getting to the bike … 1.2 miles would put 75% of the athletes on the bike in about a 10min window. Safety issue as far as i am concerned.
For the Oceanside race, there is only room from 200 a time in the small starting area.
If WTC/IMNA makes such a big deal about mass starts for their IM races, why do they do waves for 1/2 IMs such as California and Florida? I could see an argument about a 1/2IM swim being too congested because of the shorter distance, but a lot of IMs are two-loop swims.
What’s the deal?
-C
Honu IS (or at least WAS) a mass start. Better be again this year or I will sue!!