I know the topic of first IM has been discussed many times before, but I was hoping to get some input on these two races. The Redman Full is on 9/19, and the Vineman Full on 8/1. I live in northern California and have done the Vineman half ten times over the past 15 years (including the last seven). Chalk hill could be tough the second time around, and I know the run course would be difficult due to the hills. But the weather is likely to be nice, logistically it’s easier, and I know the course. Don’t know much about the Redman, except it’s very flat – which seems to be a desirable characteristic for a first IM. I guess wind and humidity are likely to be the major issues. A plus to Redman is that it gives me seven more weeks to prepare. I’m 58, and my long runs are up to 2:00, and long rides up to 3:30. That distance is challenging, but I’m ready to up them slightly this week. I have a lot of work to do no matter which I choose.
Having done the Vineman as my first IM race (and 3rd triathlon overall) I would recommend it. The heat caught me off guard last year (I live in Seattle), but I was told it is not typical to be in the 100s. The swim was alright and the bike course was manageable, with Chalk Hill being tougher the second time around. If you live in the area I would recommend it because you can train on the roads and get an advantage over everyone who travels.
One caveat on full Vineman. It is a much different event compared to its more expensive but professionally managed, M-dot sibling, the Vineman 70.3. Case in point, they ran out of water on a few of the bike course “water stops” last year. Not good when it’s 100 degrees out. Still a beautiful course, etc. but if you’re expecting the same treatment you received at the 70.3 you may be disappointed (and thirsty).
Both are great races. You could not go wrong either way. A couple of notes:
-Although the elevation profile for Redman would suggest an “easier” race, it can be deceptive … do a scan of past posts and you’ll see that wind and heat can be major factors on race day, and these can both erase any perceived gains on course characteristics. Mind, you, Vineman can also be real hot.
-iirc, this year’s Redman will be capped at 150 due to the half playing host to the national (?) championchips … but you might want to check the site.
A-ccomodation and race logistics seemed a bit easier for Redman, but this isn’t to suggest Vineman was onerous.
I don’t think you will be dissapointed with either. Congrats on making a non-M-Dot choice!