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Great Floridian Triathlon- Anyone Done It?

mdittfurth's picture
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started by mdittfurth on October 27, 2008

Anyone done this one? I am considering for 2009. They have a $199 entry until 11/5. It comes at the right time of the year for me and is an older event. Would appreciate any feedback + or - to help me make that decision.
thanks.

tsilcyc's picture
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tsilcyc posted 10 weeks ago.

I haven't done it but know others who have. From what I understand, it's a well done race. I also understand that it's not flat like IM Florida. If it weren't for the fact that it's on the other side of the country, I'd do it.

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Star's picture
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Star posted 10 weeks ago.

I've done the HIM there twice. It IS tougher than you'd expect for central Florida. It can be hot and windy on the bike and run, although we had a cold front move through this weekend, so I bet the temps were nice for the participants this year. The water is brackish so the visability is not good, but that wasn't a problem for me. It isn't a big crowd, and there hasn't been much for spectators in the past. Overall though it is a well-run race and less $$$ than the Ironman name. Hope you come down in '09!

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TryScott's picture
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TryScott posted 10 weeks ago.

I just did the short course there over the weekend. Since it was my first HIM distance, I don't have a lot to compare it to. Like others have said, the bike course isn't flat, and the run isn't purely flat either. The run certainly doesn't have large hills, but I did hear one guy say he expected hills on the bike, but he was struggling with the run because of the hills.

IMFL is a 3 hour drive for me, and GFT is about 7, but I'm thinking of doing GFT in 2009. It's one week before IMFL, so that's an another week to recover for IM Cozumel, and it's $199 vs $550+.

mdittfurth's picture
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mdittfurth posted 9 weeks ago.

Thanks for the input everyone. Based on the information, it looks like $199 is a deal. Everyone says it is a well run event and, to me, that is the most important aspect. We have hills and murky water here; wind and heat sometimes so it wouldn't be like I wouldn't have the opportunity to train for it. thanks again

mgiunta's picture
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mgiunta posted 9 weeks ago.

I did it in 2006 & 2007 and had a great experience both times (12th OA in 2007 - 10:47). As tsilcyc mentions, the bike course is not to be underestimated with BIG rolling hills throughout the first 30 miles. Scenic course and a nice relaxed vibe that you won't find at the big m-dot races. If I didn't luck out with an entry to IM Canada next year, I would go back for more. With the $ saved on the entry fee, you could rent some fancy race wheels and stay in a nice condo. Good luck with your decision!

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TryScott's picture
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TryScott posted 9 weeks ago.

I can't stop thinking about signing up for full distance race now. I think I paid $175 for the short course this year. Not only is it a good deal, but it's 5 weeks before Ironman Cozumel, which I'm already signed up for. I can't think of a better way to test my 140.6 race strategy, then to race a 140.6.