tracik
09-28-2008, 01:57 AM
Just thought I'd post a quick note for you nutty triathletes out there as you plan next year's races. I just did the SavageMan Half last weekend in Deep Creek, MD and would highly recommend it! I've been doing tri's for about 9 years, and this was really one of the most memorable events I've ever done. The course was absolutely stunning while amazingly punishing!!! It took me more than 2 hours longer to complete this HIM than my HIM PR!!! I am not quite as fit as I was in recent years but I'm not 2 hours off my best....maybe 30-45 minutes, so that gives you an idea of just how challenging this course was.
There is about 6000 feet of elevation gain in the 56 mile bike course....1950 of it being over the course of the 7 mile Big Savage Mountain. There were 9 categorized climbs, and even a 25% and 31% hill, if you can believe it. Check out youtube to see the crazy Westernport Wall (31% grade, cracked surface...vehicles aren't even permitted on it anymore).
With all that being said, it was a total blast. The scenery was spectacular, the organization was great....and it had a real grass-roots feel. I've done a lot of bigger events over the years (Ironman North America events, Eagleman, etc) and they are all first-class, but you lose a little something with such big crowds. There's a lot of hype at those events that can be a little distracting so it was fun to do something not quite so big.
I highly recommend it for any of you looking for a fun challenge!!!
There is about 6000 feet of elevation gain in the 56 mile bike course....1950 of it being over the course of the 7 mile Big Savage Mountain. There were 9 categorized climbs, and even a 25% and 31% hill, if you can believe it. Check out youtube to see the crazy Westernport Wall (31% grade, cracked surface...vehicles aren't even permitted on it anymore).
With all that being said, it was a total blast. The scenery was spectacular, the organization was great....and it had a real grass-roots feel. I've done a lot of bigger events over the years (Ironman North America events, Eagleman, etc) and they are all first-class, but you lose a little something with such big crowds. There's a lot of hype at those events that can be a little distracting so it was fun to do something not quite so big.
I highly recommend it for any of you looking for a fun challenge!!!