Just a little under two weeks to the Ironman 70.3 Vineman I figured it was time to spread some wisdom to help make everyone's race experience smoother. In this post. for those that aren't as familiar with the event, I figured I'd start with some key logistical points.
After spending every year since 1997 around the event (racing, working, coaching, announcing) I think this information will help many!
LOGISTICS
1) Travel ... always give yourself extra time to travel in to / out of Sonoma County. Travel from the south through Marin County can have have its share of slow traffic moments. (if you are flying in FRI late afternoon expect heavy traffic on 101 North at some point.
2) Remember you need to attend a pre race meeting (it's short and painless) before you register. Once you register you can enter T2 and drop run gear.
3) On the note above, remember this is a split transition area race. Be sure to bring your run gear on Saturday to set out in the transition area so you don't need to make two trips. Of note, all athletes have to travel the same distance through T2 so there is no single spot that is faster than another.
4) WEATHER ... mornings are cool (often with marine layer) and days are warm to very hot. The forecast currently is for warmer than normal conditions BUT our forecasts don't always hold 10 days out. OH, and the sun is strong & UV index high.
5) On race morning if you do not have a sherpa with you, you will need to park your car in Guerneville (use Vinemans instructions for parking) for the swim start. After the race you'll take a shuttle back, If you have a Sherpa it is much easier as they will have the car back in Windsor already. Be aware that you will not be able to get dropped off near the swim start so it's advisable to simply park OR if one wanted to get dropped off you can do so in the Safeway parking lot. BUT - DO NOT park in that lot if you want to see see your car when you return ;-)
6) A segway to my next post regarding the swim .... water levels are fine, but the river is flowing at a slower release rate. Therefore water temperatures are trending higher and of the air temps stay warm the water will be far from chilly. Be prepared for temps over 70 degrees and if we have a number of hot days up to the mid 70's
NEXT UP .... The Swim!
No comments:
Post a Comment