Carefully Choosing Your Race

It is sad to hear the announcement that Ironman China cancelled its swim leg, weeks before the race.

It is a disappointment to many; many others were upset. Registered participants have every right to get a full refund, or race and that is the offer laid down (in this case). Whether you are racing your first or tenth Ironman triathlon, it feels like a complete letdown that you cannot complete the whole trilogy of disciplines. Inclement weather is understandable (I experienced two myself) but poor planning and lack of thoroughness is unacceptable.

Live to race another day. Ironman Korea has been re-opened, and perhaps a few European 226K races are still available.

Well, that aside – how do you choose which race to do? Bart Yasso, Chief Running Officer (who used to run 2:35 marathons, and creator of the Yasso 800* drills) of Runners World magazine suggests:

1)    Distance (5K, 10K, 21K, marathon, ultra-marathon)

2)    Location (local, overseas)

3)    Date (your availability)

4)    Terrain (flat, hilly, off-road)

These sound like common sense, yet they can be overlooked. You can be disappointed if you cannot attend an overseas race, or are poorly prepared for it. Lead with your head and heart when deciding on the race you want to prime yourself for. You have your A-races and B-races. A-races are your major races, and B-races are your minor, tune-up races. Both have their place in your performance universe.

If you cannot handle cold races (10 degrees Celcius and less), choose temperate climates (15-20 degrees Celcius). If you adore the heat, choose one that fits your living area, including those near body temperature, or more. If you don’t train in hilly conditions, opt for flat courses. Never challenge your body with unfamiliar conditions on race day - it can be physically and mentally unpleasant, and the memories last.

******

I will be leading the Race Clinic 1 for the Marina21K evening race. If you have signed up, remember to be there on Sunday, 8.00am at East Coast Park, next to Car Park F2. I am also excited about the special appearance of our oldest Boston Marathon Finisher who will interact and share his stories. See you there! * I will explain what the Yasso 800 workout is.