[RunningForT3]

<p>I just found out there will be a new Ironman 70.3 next fall in the Poconos (so quite close to me). Sounds interesting... Is there any reason to do an IM-branded race? I was planning to do another half next fall, but the new one could be more interesting. Just not sure what the incentives are in general to do an official IM race.</p>

 

[miles99999]

<p>T3, there was an article online (<a href="http://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20100806%2FNEWS%2F8060363" target="_blank"><span style="color:#CC6600;">http://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20100806%2FNEWS%2F8060363</span></a> ) about a week or so ago talking about the proposal that was out there to have a 70.3 race in the Poconos.  I don't believe that they officially announced it yet though, have they?  As for the allure with doing an IM branded race, I still haven't done one yet, so I don't really know.  I suspect that most people will say that it cost about $75 more and a typical Half Iron distance race, but you get a very well run race (remember Jerseyman 2008?).</p>
<p> </p>
<p>Once it is a definite, I will probably sign up for it.  It would probably only be an hour or so from my house and I would like to try an IM branded 70.3.</p>

 

[RunningForT3]

<p>Miles, I'd also like to try it... I heard it might be more expensive. Also, I saw some comments on Slowtwitch that the organizing club isn't known for very good races... Plus, wondering the swim. I mean, I've been whitewater rafting on the Delaware, both North and South of that location. On the upside, I guess you can stand up and walk if you get tired of swimming.</p>

 

[LookiLoo]

<p>If you like a lot of people, lot of hype, IM is for you!  I think 70.3's are probably pushing $300 dollars now, yes?  I have only done one IM 70.3 and one full IM, and I realized that if I ever do an IM brand race again, it's probably b/c I *really* want to have to race that specific course (like the idea of the LP and CDA courses).  The crowds of people were somewhat of a turn-off for me.  Many people love this though, but I just have found I prefer much smaller races.  I certainly did not think the swag, aid stations, etc., were any better at the IM branded race than the independents that I have done, but you do get tons more crowd support.  Take my opinion with a grain of salt, however, as I am an extreme introvert when it comes to racing <img alt="" src="http://files.kickrunners.com/smilies/biggrin.gif" style="width:16px;height:16px;" title=""></p>