Ironman Coeur D'Alene Spotlight

Good article about Ironman Coeur D'Alene. I'm excited and can't wait to experience it again.

On June 24, 2012, more than 2,500 athletes will stand on the beach of Coeur d'Alene Lake, as they wait for the sound of the cannon that signals their Ironman journey has just begun. With arguably one of the most intensely thrilling swim-starts, Ironman Coeur d'Alene will embark on its tenth year this summer, adding a new and improved bike course and will finish the day with the classic, spectator-filled run.

This lakeside, resort town is an ideal venue for a race of this caliber. Downtown Coeur d'Alene is walkable, with easy access to the swim start, Ironman Village and transition. The course itself is exceptionally spectator-friendly and allows an athlete's support crew to cheer them on throughout vitrually the entire race.

On Sunday morning, in the minutes before 7 a.m., thousands of age group athletes will be mentally preparing themselves for the swim start. “Mass starts in Ironman races are always exciting for athletes, as well as spectators,” says Race Director, Mac Cavasar,“But when you add the view across the lake with the mountains in the distance, the colors of kayaks and buoys in the clear waters and the sounds of the crowd building with anticipation of the cannon firing, the rush of emotion is unlike any you’ve ever experienced…it’s something you will never forget.”

Following the 2.4-mile swim, competitors will then tackle the new bike course. In 2011, the course had over 40 turns and numerous rolling hills; this year, those turns have been cut down to 12 and two continuous climbs have been added. In addition, athletes can now look forward to 80 miles of uninterrupted road on the new course. However, these changes shouldn’t suggest a dull or boring ride. “I have to be honest, the new bike course will be challenging, as it will offer a wide variety of terrain and elevation levels,” says Cavasar.

Finally, the run portion of the course will take athletes through town, past coffee shops and cafes full of cheering supporters. Considered by many to be one of the most beautiful run courses in the U.S., views of the lake and mountains are plentiful along the way. This vibrant setting is sure to keep athletes energized and motivated as they make their way to the finish.

Article taken from: Ironman.com