There are a few things that really irk me about NA Sports. As great as they do some things, they do some other things that make no sense to me. Again, they have been doing this for years and have the corner on the 140.6 and 70.3 market. That said, I still think that they can improve.
First the positive:
- The Volunteers: NA Sports does an amazing job with volunteers. The volunteers are simply the best. From handling transitions, to aid stations, to helping finishers, they truly rock. I am not sure how they get them all or if they "train" them, but they are the ones that make the race go.
- The Price: I know this may come as a surprise, but $550.00 is reasonable. If the average Ironman takes 12 hours to complete the race, this breaks down to around $45.00/hour. How much is a sprint tri per hour? Or a massage? A woman's haircut? A personal trainer? Yes, there is sticker shock but it is well worth it.
- The Venue and Atmosphere: I have only been to Lake Placid, but the venue and vibe of Ironman is like no other. I am not sure what it is, but the feeling around the event is wild. Having your name called as you cross the line, the big video screen and the crowd is an amazing feeling.
- Medical: These people who work in the Medical tent and around the course are unreal. I can't imagine the trauma they see and the effort they put in that day. They are simply the best.
The Negatives:
- No T-Shirt or Schwag: For some reason, your $550.00 does not permit you an Ironman T-shirt. Sorry, let me correct that, you only get a t-shirt if you finish. Give me a freakin' break. I get a t-shirt at the local pathway 5k. Ironman is sponsored by Powerbar, Gatorade, Zorrell, Ford and more. You mean to tell me you can put a $2.00 t-shirt in the bag and some other goodies. Ridiculous!
- "Cola" on the Course: This is crazy. They have the cheapest "cola" on the course and yes, the name is "Cola". I believe Pepsi owns Gatorade. Although I don't like Pepsi, it is better than the flat, gross tasting cola. Seriously!
- NA Sports Clothing: The people who create theae t-shirts all need to be fired! The designs, look and production is disturbing. There was literally nothing in the tent worth buying. I only got a shirt because is came with 20 Powerbars. Their stuff is crap but because they have a captive audience, most of us are suckers and buy something.
- Finishers Gear: What a scam!!! After the race, they pull out the "finishers" gear. At 7 am on Monday morning, there is a line 300+ people deep waiting to get a shirt, hat, or whatever. More money for NA Sports!
- Post Race Rood: Limited. Period!
- Sign Up Policy: With the popularity of these events, NA Sports has, in my opinion, screwed up the sign up policy. If you want to race, you have to volunteer. Fine with me. If you are racing, you have to sign up, pay in full, the day before you race. Stupid! They said that they "lost" money from past sign up policies. Bull! No way! I have to come up with a better idea or formula to allow others into the race. If I want to race in Florida, the only way in is to volunteer. Does that make sense?
What I like about the 70.3 series is although it is governed by NA Sports, the control seems to be local. The RD has a say in the event and how it is run. Using only Timberman as an example, I see the time and effort that goes into it making it a local (and nationwide) success. It has that hometown feeling with some big race atmosphere. I have heard other 70.3 races are very similar.
I am not trying to bash NA Sports nor will they read or care what I say. I think I just look at races and try to figure out what is best for the racer and their family.
If you have done an 140.6 or 70.3 race, I would love to hear what your thoughts are!
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