Day Two:
The day before the event and the city was a buzz. The finish line was being set up, sponsors were displaying their products or giving away samples. The overall feel was excitement and anticipation.
Outside the Monona Terrace there were media events going on. Professional athletic trainers were sharing their tips and stories on preparing for an Ironman event. Participating athletes were either bringing their bikes to the bike/run transition area or riding about the city, while others were getting in a last minute swim in Lake Monona. Perhaps to get a feel for the body of water? I am not sure what the rules are in that regard, but there were more than half a dozen swimmers out on the course.
I spent a portion of the afternoon scouting out parts of the running and bike trails that are on the course. Not yet closed to the general public; there were many people out and about, participating in the Ironman spirit. I was starting to get a feel for how late this event is going to run when I saw light towers attached to generators along the path. I personally prefer to run at night, but running at night during the Ironman means that your are more than likely in your 10 to 12th hour.
During the evening hours, the streets of Madison were slightly quieter than the night before. The athletes and the many family and friends who support them, no doubt needed to get plenty of rest prior to the 6:30 a.m. start time. I too followed suit.
More to come on the event day blog,
Jake
