Comments: The RD calls this the most grueling iron distance in the world. The beauty of the bike course make up for the hills. The hills don't end when you hit the run. You cannot fake your way through this course. While there are not many spectators on the bike or run course, those who are there are some of the most vocal. They are truely proud to be out there and to be volunteering for the race. you are not a number in the crowd, unlike at any of the M-dot races You get more swag for your entry fee then at any other race that I've done. Nice back pack, towel, blanket, hat, waterbottle, race shirt, finishers shirt, dinner, pancake breakfast and the best organization I've seen. I did Kona and got a cheap pink TYR drawstring bag. A must do event - just make sure that you train for the race. It's been rough in the water the last three years, with strong winds on the bike. I have done this race the last four years and will be back for number five.

Comments: Fabulous race. The volunteers are spectacular and the race director pays attention to every detail. The announcers are hilarious! I will always come back for more - either for racing or volunteering!

Comments: Definitely the hardest 1/2 I've done--both the course itself and the weather made it an unforgettable experience. It was my 5th? 1/2 IM distance and definitely the one I remember the most. Oh yeah--the gear you get in your bag rules!

Comments: Organization is second to none. (Better than an M-dot IM.) Swimming in Lake Mead is fun, the scenery on the bike is spectacular, and the run course is not your average slog along city streets/country roads. The weather can be brutal (it was in 2008), but that's part of the

Comments: Tough course but once you completed this ironman all others will be less imposing. A must do race.