Going to Tri in Maryland

Here's the thing...it doesn't matter what we think!  If you not only think you can do an IM, but want it more than anything...you'll do it.  Personally, I think you'd have a lot more fun doing the smaller distances first but if you want to shoot for the big show your first time out, then go for it!

I compete for the sense of accomplishment but also for the fun of it.  My family makes fun of me because I always have a goofy smile when I cross the finish line.

I would hire a coach though...you don't have a lot of time to train, especially if you don't like running marathons.  You will need to make every training second count over the next 9 months.

Good luck!
Sharon

PS. And for the record...I think you're nuts!    But will applaud you while you "tri"!

Hi Brian.  I, too, am from Maryland.  The Columbia area, actually.  I'm also doing my first IM race this September, but I'm doing IM Wisconsin at the beginning of September.

I'm assuming that you are talking about doing the full ChesapeakeMan race.  Its a great race and really well run.

I'd recommend maybe picking up an olympic or half-iron distance race earlier in the season just to give you a gauge on your progress leading up to Chessy.

Welcome and Good luck in your training. 

First off, welcome to BT. I agree that it realy dose not matter what we think. It is your goal, and you should own it! Now that being said, I would consider doing at least a sprint if not an oly or two this summer. It has nothing to do with racing actualy. For starters, pool lap swimming is drasticly different than the washing machine start of up to 2000 swimmers, trying to make a swim cut off time, all starting at the same time.

Second reason to do a "practice" race is just that, practice. It would be horible to invest the time, money and emotions into a big race like an IM and find out in T2 you forgot to bring extra gels for the run, or to be 1/2 way into the marathon only to realize your bike helmet is still on. I am not suggesting you race for racing sake, but to get out with other triatletes and practice in race conditions.

If you realy do not want a tune up race or 5, than make sure you get your bricks in! Also consider them in at race pace so you can get used to the change of pace. I also second the idea of a personal coach that can realy help you maximize your time this season.

Good luck and happy ridding

Even if some would consider it crazy - so what.  I think you can do it, just be careful.

FWIT, a friend of mine that hadn't ran in a year or two went to support another friend and ended up entering and finishing a marathon.

You can do it!  Have fun and welcome to BT.