May
17
2011

Which Half Ironman to do?

An article by Debi Hazelden

I’m doing my first half ironman this year. ohhhhh exciting I’m moving up to the adults races. I’ve done loads of sprint triathlons and 3 olympic distance races. I’ve been racing for a year and a half so I think I’m ready to give it a go.

Ashburton Half Ironman

My first one will be the South Island Half Ironman in Ashburton in November. I think they are changing the date to Nov 5th since it clashes with the triathlon world cup race on Nov 20th. I’m doing the Ashburton Half Ironman as a practice one in the lead up to Tauranga.

Tauranga Half Ironman

Entries for this go on sale at 9am on May 24th and sell out within an hour so I’ll have to be quick.

The Tauranga Half Ironman is the qualification race for long distance world champs.

What does that mean?

It means it’s going to be competitive, there will be loads of us in the swim start and it will be awful. I feel a bit sick thinking about it. Here is a picture of the swim start at Tauranga.

So I’m deciding whether to wimp out and sign up for one with less competitors than Tauranga… I have to decide by 9am on May 24th!

Update May 24th: I’m in! Scott and I have both registered for the Tauranga Half Ironman

Tags: half ironman, Tauranga

About the Author: Debi Hazelden

is an age group triathlete currently training for the Port of Tauranga Half Ironman.

6 Comments + Add Comment

Kate May 17, 2011 at 9:01 pm

Do Tauranga- the swim’s not that bad, and it’s great fun. Plus, you’ll be able to qualify for LD worlds there

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Jane May 18, 2011 at 12:06 pm

Hey Debbie, Im thinking of doing Tauranga too but may do wanaka again instead- I have to be honest Ashburton is not a good race. Hands touch the bottom of the sludgy pond on the swim and the bike and run are laps and laps (but you may like this!) I know Graham wants me to do Tauranga but the lure of wanaka may win it )beautiful course- great feeling there)
Good look with your choice!

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debi May 18, 2011 at 1:19 pm

Yeah I know Ashburton is supposed to be boring and cold – but I’ll do it anyway since it’s so close and cheap.

Yeah ohh I think Wanaka is always a great race too. I’ve watched it twice now and just love the atmosphere.

I just saw that the long distance world champs are in Spain in July. That has swayed me towards doing Tauranga, would love a holiday in Spain if I can qualify!

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Jane May 18, 2011 at 1:20 pm

waheyy! Very exciting- go for it then ha ha! I may see you there (or not) im in a quandry too!

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- debi May 23, 2011 at 12:45 pm
  
  Ha. Jane looks like you are doing it too from G’s comment Yeah, sign up tomorrow. Remember to sign up for the Auckland world champs qualification race on Wed 25th too.
  
  Reply
Coach G Force May 19, 2011 at 10:23 pm

Yo Yo ..both of you Lady Ga Ga girls are doing Tauranga Half Ironman 2012 so have credit cards at the ready at 9.05 am 24 th May….Peace Coach G

Reply