Ironman Louisville : Official Thread (Page 10)

Originally posted by scottyr7

I was in Lou yesterday and rode the course and then drove most of the run course. I can see where this bike course could really take a lot out of you if you aren't patient. Lot's of small rollers that can really wear you down.

If anyone has any questions about the course, feel free to ask and I will try and answer them as best I can while it is still fresh in my mind.

Originally posted by WoodrowCall


That's what I've heard about the bike course. What can you say about the run course?

Originally posted by SEADOCHA



I read something that IMKY wasn't exactly flat on the run. I know there aren't any huge hills (hopefully not) but I'm curious as well. Is it really pancake flat or is that a story??

Originally posted by scottyr7

I was in Lou yesterday and rode the course and then drove most of the run course. I can see where this bike course could really take a lot out of you if you aren't patient. Lot's of small rollers that can really wear you down.

If anyone has any questions about the course, feel free to ask and I will try and answer them as best I can while it is still fresh in my mind.

Originally posted by rquinn23



What should be the plan for attacking the bike course? I am unfortunately from Central Florida where it is very flat, though I've found some "hills" to train on, but mostly they've been either short and steep or fairly short rollers, not likely what I'll see in Louisville. The bike is my strength, but I've heard that taking it easy on the bike is the way to a better run (this is my first IM). So should I not worry about my speed on the uphills and just get them done, go as fast as I can on the downhills, and then try to have a good marathon?

Originally posted by lakeview

sorry, but I don't think this bike course is one to ATTACK. I think you ought to SNEAK up on it. I rode most of it two different times in July. As a biker, I think the bike course deserves fear and respect. The heat, humidity, hills, cracks & pot holes, and fellow competitors will combine to deliver a very challenging day on the bike regardless of our bike strength.

Even when you get a chance to rest, you'll need to be watching for long cracks & seams in the road in addition to potholes and other hazards. Its not just the road obstacles, but I'm sure on race day there will be ejected competitor bottles, and last minute avoidance maneuvers that may also endanger you. On the climbs, especially on the 2nd loop, I'm sure there will be 3 abreast at times blocking faster riders again leading to risks.

The course itself, significant hills on the out & back section early that need proper pacing and alertness to position relative to fellow athletes, and then the seemingly endless stacked "rollers" that compromise the double loops in/out of Lagrange, will wear one down significantly unless paced properly.

My motto for the day will be don't drink the Kool Aid. Ride against my own plan, ignore others hammering the hills, save myself for a solid bike finish and leave some energy for the long run at the end.