Square Lake Tri and Frontrunner

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2011-06-16 10:47 AM

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Maple Grove
Subject: Square Lake Tri and Frontrunner

Frontrunner putting on St. Paul and Square Lake Tri. From posted comments I gather Frontrunner is not good in putting on tri events. I'm wondering how good is Square Lake Tri. Thanks.

2011-06-16 12:00 PM
in reply to: #3552338

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Expert
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St. Paul, MN
Subject: RE: Square Lake Tri and Frontrunner
There are "big fancy" races, "no-frills" races, and then "Frontrunner" races (formally Vacation Sports). They do an OK job, but just be ready to have all your own nutrition, know the race route well, and be ready for the distances to all be a little off. Also, take your own splits if you want them because their timing has been off before.

They're not bad, but they're not good either.

Case in point: the Oakdale Duathlon. In 2010, the results were all off. The final times were correct, but the splits were HORRIBLY off for everyone. (I did it as a relay, and apparently my biker rode about 200+ mph.) And now the results from 2010 can't be found anywhere - they just took them all down.

And at Oakdale this year, they had the course maps online. The bike map was horribly mapped out. The runs were both labeled as 3 miles as they were in years past. But once at the race, we found out that it was going to be a 3 mile and 2.5 mile run on a different course than in years past. But once the race was over, the medals still said "3, 14, 3."

That's Frontrunner in a nutshell. I don't stay away from their races, but I'm always "ready" for their races.
2011-06-16 3:18 PM
in reply to: #3552338

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Minneapolis, MN
Subject: RE: Square Lake Tri and Frontrunner
I am doing square lake as my first ever HIM. A race is a race. I figure: it will be fun. I just don't expect polished bells and whistles
2011-06-16 7:50 PM
in reply to: #3552996

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Subject: RE: Square Lake Tri and Frontrunner

I just don't expect polished bells and whistles

Add accurate course, water stops, sturdy bike racks, and possibly lifeguards to that sentiment and you're in business. ;-)

2011-06-17 6:24 AM
in reply to: #3552996

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Subject: RE: Square Lake Tri and Frontrunner

It's technically not a HIM...it's a 'Long Course', although I too consider it one.

Square Lake:  Swim:  2000yds, Bike 54, Run 13.4

HIM:  Swim 1.2 mi (2112yds), Bike 56, Run 13.1

See you there!

 

peteweb55403 - 2011-06-16 3:18 PM I am doing square lake as my first ever HIM. A race is a race. I figure: it will be fun. I just don't expect polished bells and whistles

2011-06-18 9:25 AM
in reply to: #3553673

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Minneapolis, MN
Subject: RE: Square Lake Tri and Frontrunner
leapdog - 2011-06-17 6:24 AM

It's technically not a HIM...it's a 'Long Course', although I too consider it one.

Square Lake:  Swim:  2000yds, Bike 54, Run 13.4

HIM:  Swim 1.2 mi (2112yds), Bike 56, Run 13.1

See you there!

 

 

I did not even notice that.  thank you.  still close enough for me.  I like OLY so we shall see how i like the longer distance

2011-06-19 8:43 AM
in reply to: #3552338

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Subject: RE: Square Lake Tri and Frontrunner
That is an HIM in my book.

Regarding Frontrunner, I have no issues with them. I have always thought thier rap for being unorganized is a little overblown. There might not be all of the creature comforts you might find at other races, but everything you need to run a hard race is there. If you are a somewhat experienced triathlete, are confident of yourself in each leg, and just want to get a good race in, they are good. Simple, no-frills races. One thing I do like about Frontrunner is that they usually pick wonderful courses, and Square Lake is both scenic and challenging. I've done it 3x and like to finish my season with it.

I agree with others that it helps to know the bike course and to do your own timing, but frankly I would do that with any race. To me, it is all about where I finish relative to my AG, and they get that right.

Edited by Hazelmn 2011-06-19 8:47 AM
2011-06-20 2:41 PM
in reply to: #3552338

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Maple Grove
Subject: RE: Square Lake Tri and Frontrunner

I'm willing to give Frontrunner a try and see what they're like first hand. I'm looking at Square Lake 1/2 Ironman. In my book, Final Stretch is first class race management so far with Liberty and Rochester. Very impressed with involvement of local law enforcement.

2011-06-27 10:22 PM
in reply to: #3552338

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Subject: RE: Square Lake Tri and Frontrunner

Aside from Frontrunner not being up to par with most of you, how is the course for Square Lake? I know Stillwater is a pretty hilly town, so is it safe to expect the course to include some serious climbs?

2011-06-27 10:30 PM
in reply to: #3570265

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Eden Prairie, MN, Minnesota
Subject: RE: Square Lake Tri and Frontrunner

All things considered, the course is pretty good.  Square Lake is a great place to swim and has some of the clearest water around.  The bike course has got some good rollers, but no really serious climbs.   The run is challenging and can get even rougher if it's hot and/or sunny, since there really isn't any shade to speak of. 

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