Ironman 70.3 Galway 4th September 2011

[DavidF]

After all the talk it seems to be official now:

http://www.ironmanireland.com/

[don]

Yes I was reading up about this over the last few days, Ireland is going to get it's first official Ironman IM 70.3 attracting some of the top athletes of the world to compete. I'm seriously considering entering this event as a season finale in 2011 and hopefully completing my first Ironman (albeit the half distance). Unfortunately it is €195 to enter, which is very high . Anyone else interested?

[Dena]

Don i was looking at this race, but to be honest that price is just stupid, i think the race organizers are taking the mick, thinking people will pay any sort of money just because it's IRONMAN branded and from what i have been reading this is back firing (race entry is very low) are people finally realizing that we are being ripped off? I have only done one middle distance triathlon The Lost Sheep and i can't recommend it enough, well organized, great course, friendly atmosphere all for under a 100 euro, my advise would be head to Kerry it's the same month, but hay each to their own so best of luck what ever you decide!
(ah nice to have a little rant every now and again)

Dena

[don]

Think you might be right there Dena, the only reason I was considering Galway was it seems an easier course and I'm looking for an easier course for my first IM, although I've heard a few rumours that the price may come down. It was that swim and mountainous terrain in Kerry that sounded like hardship, but hey looks like I'll be looking for that sheep in Kerry after all

[pcoulahan]

The problem with IM branded races is that the organisers have to pay a huge fee to get the race and then they have to pay extra for every qualifying spot for the world championship. Galway has 50 qualifying slots for Clearwater so it's gonna be expensive. If you want a cheap half IM next year consider Cookstown in June or Groomsport in September, both less than E100.

[DavidF]

what about this, a full Ironman on our doorstep:

http://ironmanwales.com/

[pcoulahan]

Hills hills and more hills.

[pcoulahan]

Its also a risk depending on a sea swim so late in the year. Remember what happened at Eireman?