Ford Ironman 70.3 Hawaii : Official Thread

Saw the first long range forecast calling for high's of 85 and low of 71. In looking at the days leading up to that doesn't seem like there is much deviation from day to day. I guess it was wishful thinking that we'd get a freak day in the 70's.

Also, I read that the start has been changed from a beach start to a deep water start. Not sure whether that is good or bad. I have seen several videos of the prior beach starts on youtube and it looks like pandemonium.

Where did you read that it was a deep water start?  I haven't seen that anywhere?  I hear that the winds on the bike can be brutal.  It'll be my first HIM.  Anybody elses?

I read it on another forum so do not know if it is true or not. Was hoping someone here could confirm.

I have talked to several people about the winds and have been told they can be brutal especially on the return trip from Hawi. I was planning on riding my 60mm front, 80mm back but if it is really windy I may put my 20mm on the front.

I sent an e-mail to the race director about the start and this is the response I got:

"The swim is a mass start in the water, same as last year."

Looks like the forecast now is for showers. I have never ridden my tribike on wet pavement. This is going to be even more of a challenge than I thought. I assume that the showers will reduce the heat factor. True?

I was looking at MSN weather. I would gladly trade for no rain and no wind.

I'm thinking hazy in the morning. 70 at race start, rising to low 80's throughout the bike segment, maybe a shower or two on the run. The wind is what will be the key to my day. I do not see much wind in the forecast but you never know.

We fly out early tomorrow. I have done a lot of cool things in my life but this will be a day I never forget. Good luck to you.