As Al Capone once said, “Vote Early and Vote Often”. 
Actually, in all seriousness, this contest will likely be one of the best statistical chances for folks to win a prize package of serious value. While folks are super intrigued by Bjorn’s biking ability, I just don’t see thousands and thousands of people caring enough to make a guess. Remember, though, it’s only $10 and it’s a tax-deductible, charitable donation.
Now, about the course. I’m the SavageMan course architect, so I designed it. Chris McDonald, last years champion, said during awards speech that I should see a psychiatrist. It’s hilly, but come on, it isn’t that bad. Hell, the first 18 and last 12 miles are flat or downhill and there’s only 5700 feet of total climbing, so how bad can it really be?
The Westernport Wall (http://www.savagemantri.org/Westernport_Wall.html) is a novelty, but not really important to the race. At max grade of 31% riders have an option to go around the block instead. It’s great for the spectators and a place the race buses spectators out to to cheer, shake cowbells, pick up fallen riders, etc… Those that make it over without unclipping get a brick engraved with their name laid into the road surface itself. But, for those racing, the bike course is much more than just the Wall. The next 6+ miles over Big Savage Mountain is a tough grind, particularly the 1st and last 2 miles of this. Then a descent and then repeated 1/2 mile or so steep ups and downs that just beat you up. McAndrews Hill, Otto Lane, Miller Road (new in 2008), Maynardier Ridge - they all just beat you down to where if you still have the heart for it after Maynardier Ridge you’re left with a flat time-trial final 12 miles to bring it home strong.
The run is challenging but not extreme like the bike. Last year it climbed twice to the top of Meadow Mtn (with long 2.5 mile descent), but due to deteriorated trail conditions and increased number of participants, run course is changed for 2008. It’s still challenging with some rollers and it’s more road and less trail than 2007 course, but not the extreme course the bike is.
Registration is still open. Half will sell-out, probably in next weeks. International registrations are accelerating but will probably remain open.
What BigZach fails to mention is that in addition to being undergeared (39-23), undernourished, and 1 week post-IM, he still threw down 3rd fastest bike split and was one of first to sign up to do it again for 2008 when registration opened.
Shell out $10 and buy a guess at Bjorn’s time and then post here. http://www.savagemantri.org/Bjorn.html
