Madison just hosted its 7th annual Ironman. The weather was nice for spectating, about 80 and sunny-maybe a little too hot for the racers though especially because it warmed up late afternoon.
Best part to watch-the swim. Watching a mass start of 2000+ people at sunrise is a beautiful thing. One nice thing for me (I spectated) was being able to get around very easily on my bike. I felt sorry for all the people who had to drive from spot to spot or walk long distances from parking spots at each area.
Besides the swim, my favorite is watching the finish. Crowds line up on both sides of the street and you get to see a lot of true emotion on the atheletes faces.
My brother Ryan raced, (his 7th ironman in a row) and had a very good race-PR.
For anyone who hasn't seen the race or anyone considering racing here in Madison, check out the pictures below. From what I hear, this is the best Ironman to do besides Hawaii because of the fun crowd support, scenery, and challenge.
Good spots to watch your friend or loved one include the swim-you can watch from up above on the Terrace and then catch swimmers as they run up the winding road to their bikes, Main Street in Verona is a fun and busy place to watch bikers, Stadium bar on the run course is good because runners pass by four times, and anywhere near the capitol is good to watch transitions and running.
Best part to watch-the swim. Watching a mass start of 2000+ people at sunrise is a beautiful thing. One nice thing for me (I spectated) was being able to get around very easily on my bike. I felt sorry for all the people who had to drive from spot to spot or walk long distances from parking spots at each area.
Besides the swim, my favorite is watching the finish. Crowds line up on both sides of the street and you get to see a lot of true emotion on the atheletes faces.
My brother Ryan raced, (his 7th ironman in a row) and had a very good race-PR.
For anyone who hasn't seen the race or anyone considering racing here in Madison, check out the pictures below. From what I hear, this is the best Ironman to do besides Hawaii because of the fun crowd support, scenery, and challenge.
Good spots to watch your friend or loved one include the swim-you can watch from up above on the Terrace and then catch swimmers as they run up the winding road to their bikes, Main Street in Verona is a fun and busy place to watch bikers, Stadium bar on the run course is good because runners pass by four times, and anywhere near the capitol is good to watch transitions and running.
