WTC announces those that finish 12 IM races will get to Kona

[Jon]

For those who may have not heard, WTC CEO announced that in 2012 they will be altering the Lottery system (not qualifying system) for Kona.  While all the details are not worked out yet, the gist was that athletes who have completed 12 WTC IMs will get a guaranteed shot to race Kona.  Also, they will be weighting the lottery to favor those who have entered it longer (ie. the guy who has put his name in 5 years straight, will get '10' tickets, versus first time applicant who gets 2 - I made that up as an example only).

Personally I am trying to go the qualifying road, but I think this is a good idea, that should reward those dedicated to the tri life.  I know some on this board are well on there way to 12 IM's, so maybe this will give you an added push to keep on going    Whatch ya think?

[David]

Being new to the triathlon world I take my hat off to those of you who have completed IM. To complete 12 IM's is truly amazing. Talking with the Tri and Run gang training for IM consumes your life.
   Good luck to you Jon in your quest to qualify for Kona! I enjoy watching the stories behind why people dreamed of completing Kona. It is inspirational!

[Newt]

G'day Jon,

I'm definately for the 12IM qualifying idea, as you said the person who has completed 12IM regardless of how fast they go definately walk the walk.
I've always been against celebrity spots. I've never a fan of lottery spots, though I do understand the history of it. (Kona was supposed to allow the "average" person the chance to race)

Peace
Peter

[Jon]

Pete,

We agree on a couple of things this week - nice not to be alone    How many IM's have you done anyway?  Do you think you will ever return to race an Ironman or are your interests/goals elsewhere now?

Cheers,
Jon 

[Newt]

G'day Jon,

Everytime I read about IM races and race reports I start to get excited about IM racing, especially in different locals I haven't raced, like New Zealand, Mont Tremblant, Lanzarote etc. But then the reality of IM focus/training creeps in, and I lose the desire. I know Janet (my wife) would love to go back to Hawaii, and in some ways I feel I have some unfinished business there but I just enjoy mtbing, trail running and just plain goofing off to much to dig in and get the job done. :)
Though the thoughts of new toys (Power meter, bike, wetsuit) make me salivate..........

4 IM to date, IMC, IMMOO and 2 times Hawaii.
How about you how many IM have you completed?
Peace
Peter

[Jon]

Pete,

You obviously know how to get it done, by the sounds of it KQ'ing on both your IM's - awesome!  You are smart to take a break.... better that then burning out.  I took this year basically off and while I wish I did more training, I still think the rest serves me well in the big picture. Once you get in that 'build zone', it seems 'normal', to juggle everything and put in the big time (because, at least for me, I am so focused on the race), but when you step back you realize how much effort it was (for me and my family). 

I have done 5 Ironmans - IMLP, IMC x2, IMFLx2.  I am likely going to race up to half IM's next year (if I'm feeling really good, I could think about Esprit full, but I don't even know my schedule yet).  As of now, I think my next WTC IM would be in 2013. 

Cheers,
Jon