Source: Terry Whalebone
Ironman Lanzarote is a triathlon race that takes place is the Canary Island, which is a few kilometers from Morocco. It has been acknowledged as the most demanding race on the Ironman circuit. This is due to the hilly bike rides, swimming in the waves and the heat as you run along the terrain. It is a renowned triathlon event that requires a commitment to participate made a year ahead. If you want to have fun or try out your athletic skills, this is the place to be, as you race against pros.
1. Know The Terrain
Source: Alf Altendorf
It is advisable to get to familiarize yourself with the terrain before the actual event, at least a week earlier. Let your body adapt to the new climate and try out the different courses of the game. You don’t want to get muscle cramping or having to deal with dehydration, during the actual race. You become more competitive once you have adapted than one who hasn’t. Try out the bike courses and race with the wind brushing against you. This would make the race much easier since your body will be used to it.
Information
- Name: Ironman Lanzarote
- Address: Canary Island, Spain
- Website: http://eu.ironman.com/triathlon/events/emea/ironman/lanzarote.aspx#axzz4Ap2CASMQ
2. On the D-Day
Source: Canary Islands Photos
The race starts in the wee hours of the morning. The athletes congregate at the transition area. Here, you can sense the nervousness of the various athletes. There are also those who have come just to have fun at the race. The happy, jolly personas. Don’t be surprised to see others sprawling from the bars, dressed in spandex and ready to face the race. Lanzarote is a place for all, the competitors and those who just want to have fun. It’s best to be relaxed and not focus on the others.
3. The Swimming Passage
The swim course is a two-lap course that takes place at Playa Grande. It has a small running route between the two laps. The competitors are grouped with the pros starting first. If you believe in your swimming skill, it is best to be in the first line so as to be able to gain some distance and avoid lagging behind. On good weather, the course is usually flat with few current. Keep your timing chip close by as it will be needed at the beach exit otherwise; you will get disqualified.
4. Biking Race
Well done to our CEO @njessop aka the King of Mobile who completed #Ironman #Lanzarote last weekend! Legend! pic.twitter.com/HQT9WF52BC
— OnePoint Global (@OnePointGlobal) May 26, 2016
The transition area from swim to bike is known as T1. The course includes a hilly ride where there’s no vegetation to break the wind. This means that you will race against high winds. To beat this, you need to ride smart. The fastest doesn’t always win. It is a total 182.2 km that will take you around the island. The course can be changed at any time. You need to be flexible to changes. It is also open to traffic, and there are police officers patrolling and volunteers along the course. The final kilometers isn’t that difficult as it’s a downhill ride in a not so bad terrain. Keep your hopes up and keep pushing yourself to get to the finish.
5. Running
http://twitter.com/patrickams/status/735993791992205312
This is a three lap course that will take you to the airport and back and through the sea front. Take time to enjoy the beautiful ocean view as you run along. But not too long, you don’t want to lose do you? Tap into your horsepower to be able to get to the finish line. The primary challenge will be the heat that may lead to dehydration.Spectators will be lined along the way to cheer you forward. There are five Aid stations along the way. Don’t forget to pick your wristband at the end of each lap.
6. Importance of ‘Sleeves.’
If you react strongly to sunlight, you better have your sleeves nearby. Better to have them on before swimming for they become tedious to put them on when you are wet. They will shade you from the hot sun. They are also able to keep you fresh for some time when you pour water on yourself. This will be very helpful in the running course. Also, you can roll the down if you feel like you don’t need them anymore.
7. Enjoy yourself
Even though you are at the event to compete, take the time to enjoy yourself. This doesn’t mean that you don’t stick to the diet, no. Take a chance to bask in the hot sun. Take part in the parades. Just have a relaxing time even as you train and prepare yourself. Get to be awe-struck by the beautiful surroundings. Take a walk on the beach. You never know, you may never get this chance again. A relaxed mind always competes best. Enjoy! Enjoy! Enjoy! Remember all that you have sacrificed to get there; you deserve to relax.
8. Aid Stations
Source: Canary Islands Photos
These are designated station area where your needs are met. If you are completely sure that you won’t need a drink for the next few miles, you can ride or run past it. Keep yourself constantly hydrated, remember the scorching sun. You can’t beat it; you’ve got to listen to your body. Take little and not too much that it keeps you from getting to the finish line. Get help at the station if and when needed.
9. Stick to your Plan
.@CompImagePhoto showcases a tough and beautiful course at Ironman Lanzarote: https://t.co/eui1AUuG4p pic.twitter.com/bRP9KnuDFA
— Triathlete Magazine (@TriathleteMag) May 25, 2016
Everywhere you will find someone who knows everything. The Know-it-all they have a better way of doing things than you. Don’t listen to them, have faith in yourself. You got this far, and you will go far with your game plan. Don’t be easily swayed. The end justifies the means, not the other way around. You’ve got to stick to your plan. Go on and keep training. You’ve got to do your best, only then will you be satisfied. The experience isn’t all about winning, but learning for there’s always the next time.
10. Smile to the End
Finisher IRONMAN de LANZAROTE 2016 pic.twitter.com/SWvtzjgx0m
— Toni Hernandez (@BombersToni) May 25, 2016
A smile will get you cheered at, and this will motivate you to race even faster. Focus on the finish line and not what is happening around you. Yes, they may run faster, but that is no guarantee that they will be first. You could get a muscle cramp a few miles ahead then you will be lagging. Believe in your training and keep pushing to the end. Be cheerful all the way. You will make it.
You can be sure to have a pleasant experience at Ironman Lanzarote. It’s not all about winning but balancing between enjoying yourself and competing. Get your gear on, time to have some fun.
Have a good trip and travel!
