Tri again?

I think that I have picked my next Triathlon - Chattanooga, TN July 17th. (Waterfront Triathlon) It is a 1.5k (0.9mi) swim, 40k (24.8mi) bike and 10k (6.2mi) run. I am not a 100% sold on this yet but pretty much so. It is a little further than I wanted to travel at a little under six hours (344mi) drive.* The course is a little odd in that you go out and back on the bike route twice to get the distance and out and back on the running route once. On the other hand the date is perfect, it gives me six weeks to prepare. That should be enough time to prepare but soon enough to keep me anxious about the training. I also really want to go to Chattanooga.

A couple years ago I got a little frustrated and took off for a long drive. At some point during the voyage I passed through Chattanooga and stopped for about an hour or so. I did not feel like staying at the time but got a good feeling from the downtown area. They have what looks like a very nice water front area with plenty of restaurants, museums, an aquarium and an IMAX. It just seemed like it would be a nice place to relax and spend a few days. Since then I have always wanted to go back.

I think I will go do this event and stay for a day or two. If anyone wants to join me for the trip please feel free. I hear it is a family friendly place. The only thing I ask is that we don’t do too much the day before and I get to bed at a decent hour. Given my history on that, we’ll see. :)


* Of course the time estimate depends on who drives. Robert and Chris could probably make it in three hours but I am planning on a more normal drive time.