So…are any of you doing the 70.3 in the oldest city in the U.S.? Which one is that, you ask? Boston…Philly? Actually, it’s Ironman 70.3 San Juan on March 17th. That’s right...San Juan. We’ll leave the semantics debate over Puerto Rico’s status (technically it is a U.S. Territory, although there is talk of making it the 51st U.S. state) to another time and just give you our perspective on this cool event.
Puerto Rico was founded in 1521. English and Spanish are its official languages (who says Americans are never multi-lingual?). The U.S. dollar is the currency, and you don't need a passport or visa to travel there.
It is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the Caribbean. You may think the plane took a wrong turn and landed in Miami when you see the bustling hotels and modern establishments in downtown. But take solace in knowing that there are sections that remain quaint, restive and yet oh so cosmopolitan…enter beautiful Old San Juan.
When you enter the walled city of Old San Juan, often called the Soul of Puerto Rico, you will feel as if you have been transported to Seville or Buenos Aires. The architecture is magnificent and you’ll notice incredible aromas emanating from the tons of alfresco restaurants, bistros & coffee stops.
We could go on about the beaches and watersports but of course, dear Athlete, you are here to RACE!
Swim: 1.2 miles
The spectator friendly swim starts in Condado Lagoon which is well protected from any rough open water. While you most likely won’t have the benefit of a wetsuit, since the water temperature should be near 78 degrees, the buoyancy of the salt water should help keep you level in the water. And if you get nervous, just look down and pretend you’re snorkeling…along with a couple hundred really close friends.
Bike: 56 miles
Even though Puerto Rico does have a lot of hills, the bike is fairly flat. There are a few rollers and false flats but in general, it’s a fast course. Sweet, right?!
Run: 13 miles
Ok, so you’ve had it fairly easy with a protected swim and a flat bike. Be ready though, as a few of our SOAS ambassadors have told us that the run can be really punishing. Not only is the course hilly, it’s likely that the heat and humidity will have kicked in by the time you toss on your kicks. One saving grace could be that the run is usually lined with spectators cheering you on. Hopefully you can feed off their energy and hang on for a great finish.
The race has 40 2013 World Championship 70.3 Las Vegas Qualifying spots.
Post-race:
After you’ve finished, it time to engage in a little carb replenishment, right? What are you in the mood for? A juicy steak? A fab Asian-fusion experience? Middle Eastern? It’s all available here. Or perhaps just stick to the incredibly fresh local seafood and home-styled Creole cooking.
No matter what you do, we hope you have a blast. And as always, wave and say hello to the other SOAS athletes on the course!
Best!
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