Ironman Chattanooga : Official Thread (Page 12)

I think its Natchez Trace, a road that runs from Nashville, down into Mississippi. 440 miles of cycling friendly highway acc to the website. Haven't ridden it, but the site claims conditions conducive to cycling (state park land and low speed limits?). Would love to ride it sometime when warmer.

Thanks for the reply, Jim

You pretty much nailed it. I've only ridden a short section starting near Nashville. Basically a two-lane road with little traffic. Commercial traffic is banned though you occasionally see light commercial traffic though never large trucks. There is no shoulder but vehicle traffic is so light it doesn't matter. Starting in Nashville it is mostly rolling hills. I've heard it gets flatter as you get closer to MS. There are occasional rest areas with restrooms and water fountains. There are also exits to other roads where you can find convenience stores if needed. I do most my long rides out there even though it is a 50-55 minute drive from my house. Best parts for me - little traffic, no turns to get lost (just ride and turn around when ready), challenging terrain, beautiful views.

You ride across this bridge just a few miles outside of Nashville.
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/96/Natchez_Trace_Pa...

Most of the time the population on the Trace looks something like this:

Cyclists > wild turkeys > deer > motorcyclists > automobiles

I just looked up the Natchez Trace information. Color me jealous - that looks like a fantastic route. I don't know that I'll be able to make it up that way between now and the race but it looks pretty great.

For those who live there or are close, is it possible to ride the IM bike route prior to the race. I would like to plan a spring trip to preview bike a run course so I know what I'm in for. I live at the beach with no hills so I want to test out my gearing for raceday. Are the roads OK to ride on traffic wise or would it be something I can only drive a car on, Thanks Jim

You absolutely can ride it, i did a few weeks ago without 4 other people. The roads are narrow and there's no shoulder but you should be fine. There's a fair amount of traffic but assuming you do a fair amount of road riding you'll be fine. the only time i would see it being a problem would be if you tried to ride during the week during rush hour. Any other time and you should have smooth sailing. Whenever you do come down shoot me a message, i'm in ATL a couple hours away and plan on riding it as frequently as possible. I'll give you a tour!

with about 4 other people**

i should proofread..

Thanks very much, I will take you up on that, most likely sometime this spring, Jim

According to the Facebook page, IM Raleigh has less than 100 spots left. Was going to do this and that Lake Logan thingy in July as mid season prep for IMChoo. FYI

Thanks for the heads up! I just registered my wife and I! (bye bye money).

Anyone know where to stay for this one? I assume downtown would be good.

Downtown Sheraton or Marriott are right at the finish, I stated at the Marriott last year and booked it again for next year. Perfect location, you can book through IM Raleigh site. Jim

I figured I would do one of those two, just wanted to make sure. thanks!

I'm set to do Munice in July, anyone else?

You've got the right idea, Sheraton or Marriott for IM 70.3 Raleigh. Sheraton should be few dollars cheaper per night than the Marriott.

Thats my race as well! Haven't missed Muncie in 22 years. We've made a lot of changes over the years but its still my favorite race! Oldest half-distance race in the world. This will be our 35th year.

Well, you are just the person I needed. What hotels do you recommend? I live just far enough away so an overnight is best. I booked a room at a place in Winchester. Seems like a decent place, but far away from any race activities.

The picture isn't showing up. What is it?

Just saw this link on another site. Lake Logan 1/2 near Asheville, NC, looks like a good pre Choo race

http://www.setupevents.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=event_detail&eventI...

I saw that too. Setup events are topnotch too. I'm holding out hoping that Team magic puts one on in NE Alabama in August, but if that falls through i'll be there. Its an excuse to go to Ashville...one of the prettiest cities i know.

So am I the only one on here still in hotel limbo with this race?

I have one night waitlisted in my reservation which is so stressful. Just wondering if everybody else is all settled with their travel plans.

Amy

Sorry, but no picture. The suspense is killing us, just tell us, what type of new speed machine will you be sporting in 2014?

Just ran the course tonight on the north side of the river...fairly tough. I'm a poor runner already and the up and down is really gonna hurt on lap two. At least I have 10 months to get used to it. Anyone else run the course and feel that way?

There's a thread over on ST about the run course and most people who know the course said it will be hard.
Its strange because the gain isn't that much but everyone says its hilly.
I am looking forward to it after doing IMFL 2 times, that run is really flat.