Rev3 Knoxville Roll Call

This will be my first attempt at half distance.  Any advice is appreciated, especially in regards to this specific race.  I've read past race reviews.  Obviously, I'm expecting lots of hills and some technical descents.  I hope to be able to drive the bike course pre-race but since I'm probably bringing the whole family, I may not have that option as I doubt they want to spend extra time in the car.

Also, for the Saturday practice swim, I assume you just show up during that time window and swim whatever you want?  How strict is the ending time on the schedule for the practice swim?  I'll be pushing it to get everyone ready to leave Saturday morning, get through packet pickup and to the swim area on time.

I wouldn't stress about pre-riding the course.  Expect some real hills.  And pace them accordingly.  The route has changed since I did it a few years back.  I remember the hill being the real deal.  Slow down and climb it within your capabilities.  The last thing you want to do is blow up in the first 15 miles.  Take the descents careful.

Given that it is a river, they might be a bit strict.  However, you can likely still get in the water for a few minutes throughout the day.  I doubt they can police it all day. 

Given that this is your first attempt at the distance, go out and have fun with it.  Remember, this isn't a PR course.  Dont' try to squeeze out every second. If you got 6:03 or 6:05 it probably won't make a difference in how you feel.  But pacing it correctly and having a well executed race will be the difference between having fun and being miserable.  

1.  Pace the bike conservatively
2.  Stay on top of your nutrition
3.  Start the run slower than you expect
4.  Have fun. 

you can run it barefoot without issue, no need for a shoe drop. it's a mix of concrete and grass. (or at least it was last year).

The hills are nothing killer in terms of grade, but they tend to be on the long side when climbing (at least that is the way they felt to me). Saw many a person with a road bike and clip-on aero bars last year. WOrk the hills and recover on the downhills.. Also, the back half of the run is long rolling hills, with  last year's heat it was brutal. Hydration is key, also they were using the water bags last year. Which I thought were a pain to start but were a life saver as you could carry them much longer than a cup. I used one to drink and one to cool myself with.. Great race, enjoy it!

Good luck, I enjoyed that race and wish I was doing it again.. but with IMTX 2 weeks later.. probably not a smart idea.

Just check the bike.  Keep all the gear with you until the morning. 

Thanks! Although now that means I have to wake up earlier! 

Anyone using a garmin edge here is the updated .gpx with an added cue sheet for turn by turn directions

http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=534777

Supposedly showers are on/off this weekend. That can change pretty quick in TN though. It usually ends up at least showering race day (historically speaking)

Sadly I'm out. After having to pull out of my last race I don't feel like I've had enough time to get healthy enough to race. Have fun guys, I'll be around watching.