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Slowtwitch Forums: Triathlon Forum:
The Abu Dhabi Triathlon

 

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Fleck

Nov 4, 09 8:24

Post #26 of 63 (1114 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [bjorn] [In reply to] Can't Post

FINALLY a race with reasonable race distances.

I know you were joking, but at some level it's a good question to ask, because this starting to drift further away from what I think the founders of the sport of triathlon had in mind - a balance of swim cycle and run fitness. This really is all about the bike.




Steve Fleck
http://www.nineteenwetsuits.com
http://stevefleck.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/stevefleck


hawkeyez

Nov 4, 09 8:30

Post #27 of 63 (1100 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Fleck] [In reply to] Can't Post

In Reply To:
FINALLY a race with reasonable race distances.

I know you were joking, but at some level it's a good question to ask, because this starting to drift further away from what I think the founders of the sport of triathlon had in mind - a balance of swim cycle and run fitness. This really is all about the bike.


Do you think that the current distances are a correct balance of swim cycle and run fitness? I sort of see cycle and run fitness as a similar balance for IM's and half's, but think it's not a balance of swim fitness. Not to hijack or anything, but it sort of goes along with the thread.


bjorn

Nov 4, 09 8:46

Post #28 of 63 (1066 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Fleck] [In reply to] Can't Post

In Reply To:
FINALLY a race with reasonable race distances.

I know you were joking, but at some level it's a good question to ask, because this starting to drift further away from what I think the founders of the sport of triathlon had in mind - a balance of swim cycle and run fitness. This really is all about the bike.




Like it has been the sport has always favored running so I don't think it's terrible that there are some races that shifts the balance a little bit. I think it might be interesting because it'll probably change the dynamic of racing a little bit since some might have to take more risks on the bike to stay in contention for the run. Since the beginning race distances haven't changed all that much, and the usual distances is still there for almost all other races, so I don't think this is a big deal for those worried that the sport as a whole is gonna change to any bigger extent.


doug in co

Nov 4, 09 8:53

Post #29 of 63 (1050 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [UKathlete] [In reply to] Can't Post

Bing is right to be worried.. although foreign tourists are not usually subject to Shari'a, the law is by no means clear. In many cases women are not considered to be full persons before the law. See
http://www.unhcr.org/...ARE,49bf7ad8b,0.html

Abu Dhabi and Dubai are both in the UAE, both governed by the same hereditary autocrats and the same legal system. So the distinction is merely geographical, not essential.

A lot of the money for 9/11 was laundered through the UAE. Al-Qaeda wrote to the UAE as follows:
http://www.ctc.usma.edu/...002-603856-Trans.pdf
The UAE recognized the Taliban as the legitimate government of Afghanistan.
Personally I'd consider spending money in the UAE to be giving aid and comfort to the enemy.. so Bing's conclusion is not at all unreasonable.


wesc

Nov 4, 09 9:01

Post #30 of 63 (1032 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [doug in co] [In reply to] Can't Post

Wow.

In that same sense you are promoting terrorism every time you shop at Walmart since some of those employees probably use their paycheck to buy drugs which has roots to Afghanistan.


Ironrav

Nov 4, 09 9:13

Post #31 of 63 (1018 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [wesc] [In reply to] Can't Post

....and it goes on! It comes down to what you want really. If you want to race at a venue that has near perfect weather, water, roads, this one is for you. If not, just pretend that it doesn't exist, full stop!
Follow me on Twitter:
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Have a listen of my Podcast : http://www.industrialmultisport.co.uk/Podcast/imultisport.rss or on iTunes

(This post was edited by Ironrav on Nov 4, 09 9:15)


drp

Nov 4, 09 9:15

Post #32 of 63 (1013 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [UKathlete] [In reply to] Can't Post

You made good points until the last comment. At that point, you became just like the person you were responding to. If you're going to rise above the crap don't let yourself fall back into it.


pk

Nov 4, 09 9:46

Post #33 of 63 (973 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [drp] [In reply to] Can't Post

if you consider that they even had the idea to pay a spin doctor on slowtwitsch this race will be well organiced....

and I think when you see that ironman becomes more and more a bike pack race where the runners sit in (and even legally you still save energy ) its good that sometimes there is a race which gives cyclists a chance
and its good to have a shorter run at the beginning of the season for faster recovery .


ps I wonder should i still race in the Us when we consider the human right history in this country ......
when I read some of the arguments in this treat, one just wonders ..
Iam sure some concern for females is legitimate and being a bit more sesnsible with bra tops and swimming trunks would show some respect from our side
But Iam sure it will be fine. and its good for the country to see some skin....


squid

Nov 4, 09 10:03

Post #34 of 63 (961 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Bing] [In reply to] Can't Post

Is it just me - but if you do this race, the terrorists win ?

Yes, it's just you.



Fleck

Nov 4, 09 10:48

Post #35 of 63 (897 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [bjorn] [In reply to] Can't Post

Like it has been the sport has always favored running so I don't think it's terrible that there are some races that shifts the balance a little bit. I think it might be interesting because it'll probably change the dynamic of racing a little bit since some might have to take more risks on the bike to stay in contention for the run. Since the beginning race distances haven't changed all that much, and the usual distances is still there for almost all other races, so I don't think this is a big deal for those worried that the sport as a whole is gonna change to any bigger extent.

Bjorn,

Agreed. The sport is starting to be come a bit cookie cutter and a bit of variety is never a bad thing.

Since you are generally regraded, as one of the strongest and fastest cyclists in the sport of triathlon, how would you rate your chances in a race with this format?

How much of a lead, would you need at T2 to win?

When you say, risks, what do you mean exactly - ride harder and dig deeper on the bike to be closer on the run?



Steve Fleck
http://www.nineteenwetsuits.com
http://stevefleck.blogspot.com
http://twitter.com/stevefleck


bjorn

Nov 4, 09 11:12

Post #36 of 63 (869 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Fleck] [In reply to] Can't Post

In Reply To:
Like it has been the sport has always favored running so I don't think it's terrible that there are some races that shifts the balance a little bit. I think it might be interesting because it'll probably change the dynamic of racing a little bit since some might have to take more risks on the bike to stay in contention for the run. Since the beginning race distances haven't changed all that much, and the usual distances is still there for almost all other races, so I don't think this is a big deal for those worried that the sport as a whole is gonna change to any bigger extent.

Bjorn,

Agreed. The sport is starting to be come a bit cookie cutter and a bit of variety is never a bad thing.

Since you are generally regraded, as one of the strongest and fastest cyclists in the sport of triathlon, how would you rate your chances in a race with this format?

How much of a lead, would you need at T2 to win?

When you say, risks, what do you mean exactly - ride harder and dig deeper on the bike to be closer on the run?



I'm only guessing of course but I think it's possible that there would be more risk taking as far as pacing goes both from people that use the bike leg to get a gap and the ones using it to stay in contention for the run. With less distance on the run to make up any deficits from the bike it seems natural that the "runners" would maybe take a few more chances to minimize the time gaps. Likewise I'm sure everyone trying to make the race on the bike would do everything to break things apart there. Since the run is shorter you might get away with a different pacing stategy on the bike which might be interesting to see.

As for my chances I have no idea. If I get back to similar shape I was in a few times some years ago I might do ok with around a 10min gap. For this particular race in early march it might be difficult since I'd most likely prepare for it in the Swedish winter if I'd do it.


(This post was edited by bjorn on Nov 4, 09 11:15)


devashish_paul

Nov 4, 09 11:17

Post #37 of 63 (861 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Fleck] [In reply to] Can't Post

I'm with Bjorn and I come from a running background. Triathlon has always been skewed to running.

Actually the format of the Abu Dhabi short course 1.5/100/10 would be the perfect format for the olympics. Yes, the race would end up being around 3:15 (add 90 minutes to the current 1:45 length) but in a draft legal format, a bike break might just be able to gain 2-4 minutes. This would be enough of a lead to perhaps make more bike breaks stick. If nothing else, it would make the bike tactics more interesting from a spectating perspective. You wouldn't need to cover the entire thing live. Just show the swim and then pan out to track or swimming, or gymnastics, and then swing back to triathon with 20K left in the bike. By then its getting exciting and you know what type of lead is going to happen at T2. Keep the coverage on for the last 20K of the bike (30 minutes) and the run (approximately 30-34 minutes) and you got a "real show".

As for the discussion about Abu Dhabi and whether this supports or does not support terrorists, can someone remind me again which nation effectively funded the same guys who are now the Taliban to fight the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan? Using the same logic we should all boycott Kona???

Dev

www.kestrelbicycles.com |www.infinitnutrition.ca | www.nineteenwetsuits.com
Free camps: Whiteface Hill Climb + Epicman Lake Placid 3k/180k/21k June 10/11 2010


Mark Lemmon

Nov 4, 09 11:56

Post #38 of 63 (810 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Fleck] [In reply to] Can't Post

Hmm...I'm getting too old for the IM distance, specifically the marathon. I was thinking about doing some Gran Fondos because I still have a desire to race long, but I'm still a trigeek and maybe if this distance comes to the states...


Darrell

Nov 4, 09 12:05

Post #39 of 63 (790 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Herbert] [In reply to] Can't Post

Any idea what the water temp is? I'm assuming that it would be warm enough to not use wetsuits.

.
-Darrell
Front of the Pack - Silicon Valley's triathlon store

FIST certified retailer of Cervelo, Argon18, Quarq, SRM, De Soto and other fine equipment.
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devashish_paul

Nov 4, 09 14:33

Post #40 of 63 (683 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Mark Lemmon] [In reply to] Can't Post

Mark, While not "a race", I've been bringing you the opportunity to participate at this distance for 11 years now, in Lake Placid. I just changed my signature block to clarify that for you....no entry fee, no 364 day advance sign up, no timing, no support, no finisher gear, no 7 day hotel minimum, and we allow fins, drafting and you can wear 2 wetsuits if you want...sadly no prize money. Just show up for the Whiteface Mountain Hillclimb the nite before and you're good to go. June 10/11....hope you show up. More fun than any real tri.

But I like the concept of the Abu Dhabi race....too bad it is in the middle of ski season.

www.kestrelbicycles.com |www.infinitnutrition.ca | www.nineteenwetsuits.com
Free camps: Whiteface Hill Climb + Epicman Lake Placid 3k/180k/21k June 10/11 2010


aarondavidson

Nov 4, 09 16:30

Post #41 of 63 (643 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Fleck] [In reply to] Can't Post

In Reply To:
FINALLY a race with reasonable race distances.

I know you were joking, but at some level it's a good question to ask, because this starting to drift further away from what I think the founders of the sport of triathlon had in mind - a balance of swim cycle and run fitness. This really is all about the bike.


The race seems designed for a German or at least someone raised in Germany.
-- Aaron Davidson


aarondavidson

Nov 4, 09 16:43

Post #42 of 63 (628 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [bjorn] [In reply to] Can't Post

In Reply To:
For this particular race in early march it might be difficult since I'd most likely prepare for it in the Swedish winter if I'd do it.
I think it one thing that will make this race particularly difficult for North American, and most European athletes. Very early in the year to race in a hot climate coming from the cold.
-- Aaron Davidson


cerveloguy

Nov 4, 09 16:57

Post #43 of 63 (608 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Bing] [In reply to] Can't Post

"My initial reaction is similar to Trigirlpink (I'm a woman too)"

My wife would have the same reaction also. Any western woman should have some degree of cautious visiting any middle east country, even a "liberal" one.


Old Scratch

Nov 4, 09 17:29

Post #44 of 63 (592 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Trigirlpink] [In reply to] Can't Post

In Reply To:
Will I have to wear a microfiber moisture wicking burka?

Don't know bout that but you should have a koozie on the beer,they tolerate western people and alcohol but not their subjects.

The oil rich nations operate in a very unique juxtaposition.They are the 1% that represent what the west "see's".Don't be fooled by their generosity in sponsorship .This is a full blown misogynistic operation.


LazyEP

Nov 4, 09 17:36

Post #45 of 63 (582 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Fleck] [In reply to] Can't Post

Let me ask the next question: Israeli athletes & Jewish athletes from other countries allowed?
Sean Phelps
"It's not the age sweetheart. It's the mileage."
Dr. Henry "Indiana" Jones, Jr.


iwgu1030

Nov 4, 09 18:00

Post #46 of 63 (558 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [LazyEP] [In reply to] Can't Post

LazyEP brings up a good question.... on the two times I (an American woman) visited, one of the visa requirements stated that entry would not be permitted if the applicant has ever visited Israel. So, perhaps even the Americans, Europeans, etc who have have Israeli stamps in their passports will not be allowed entry.

That said, I felt very safe in Abu Dhabi. I traveled to many places alone and I ran regularly along the waterfront in shorts and a short-sleeved shirt (more loosely fitted than I would normally wear, though). And yes, they let the foreigners drink alcohol in the hotels.

I am thinking of doing the race..... perhaps more interaction on both sides will help relations and remove stereotypes.


Herbert

Nov 4, 09 18:02

Post #47 of 63 (555 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [LazyEP] [In reply to] Can't Post

For my Visa I was asked no such question actually.


drew_235

Nov 4, 09 18:38

Post #48 of 63 (523 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [iwgu1030] [In reply to] Can't Post

one of the visa requirements stated that entry would not be permitted if the applicant has ever visited Israel.

There's an easy fix to this - you get two passports. I kid you not. Where I used to work, we traveled the world, and we all had two passports - one was used for countries that recognized Israel, the other for countries that didn't. This is completely legit and people do it all the time, just explain your needs to the local passport authority.
-------------
formerly known as compact_d
"Life is fragile - we are all just a slip or a car crash away from being a very different person."


LazyEP

Nov 4, 09 19:00

Post #49 of 63 (495 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [iwgu1030] [In reply to] Can't Post

Tough to have interaction when they won't let the other group enter the country.
I'll pass on this event.
Sean Phelps
"It's not the age sweetheart. It's the mileage."
Dr. Henry "Indiana" Jones, Jr.


TheRock

Nov 4, 09 19:06

Post #50 of 63 (489 views)
Re: The Abu Dhabi Triathlon [Bing] [In reply to] Can't Post

Quote:
Is it just me - but if you do this race, the terrorists win ?

Slowman I'd like to suggest Bing be banned for stupidity. This is without a doubt the stupidest comment I have ever read on this site.

You should change your signature to, I'm a racist and proud of it.






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