Subject: RE: Roll Call Topeka TinMan I live about 10 minutes (walking) from Tinman Circle so I do this course or portions of it all the time. Sadly, that doesn't make me any faster at it, but I can speak from 1st hand experience towards the questions asked here: 1. The bike course is mostly flat/rolling hills. Nothing even close to steep/long like that hill a couple weeks ago at the KC Tri at Longview Lake if you any of you did that one. (SHORT COURSE) 37th probably has the most little rolling dips and inclines. East on 37th takes you to Paulen which you turn South on. Heading South on Paulen Rd is a gradual incline all the way through 53rd street and then slightly past that intersection, it starts to gradually descend to the intersection at 61st street. Sharp turn East on 61st and then back up hill with a slight incline you go. Pretty much stays that way (slight incline) all the way to the intersection of Ratner and 61st. Just about the halfway point of the short course. Turning North on Ratner, there is a very quick small incline and then the majority of Ratner (going north) back to 53rd is downward sloped! When I ride, I really try to BUST OUT on this section. Once you get to Ratner/53rd street intersection, you hang a sharp left and continue West on 53rd. There are two fairly steep quick up and down hills on 53rd followed by an annoying incline back to Paulen Rd. You then turn right (North) on Paulen and start heading back to 37th street. Going North on Paulen this is by far (wind permitting) the fastest section of the course. On Paulen from 53rd to 37th, you can make considerably great time. At the intersection of 37th/Paulen you turn left (West) and make your way through the rolling up and downs back to the lake. SUMMARY: Gradual incline the first half of the course, gradual decline the second half of the course. 2. Water temp this morning (June 5th) was around 73degrees. My buddy and I just swam in the beach/cove this morning where the swim course will be held. Wet Suit not needed. First 25 was a bit chilly, but just fine once the body gets moving. 3. The run course is more hilly than the bike course if you ask me. Not sure if that is good or bad ..but guess it depends on personal preferences. Overall, I love it and love living by Lake Shawnee. Can't wait. It's going to be a lot of fun and UltraMax has put on a great event, the two races I have done so far in my short Tri experiences! Happy to answer as many questions as I can if I didn't cover anything mentioned here... |