About 1 year before doing an Ironman triathlon, a different type of training begins. Registering for an Ironman event is an event in and of itself. Depending on the popularity of the event, they can sell-out within minutes! Think fast-clicking!
Active.com is THE race registration website - if you're thinking of signing up for an event, it is recommended that you get well acquainted with this website. Start by signing up for an account and make sure to enter your info correctly, which will auto-fill your name, address, and phone number while registering for an event (saving you precious seconds).
In order to secure your spot in the Ironman of your choosing, we did some extra "training". We knew that another event, a rather less popular Ironman triathlon (IM St. George), was not quite sold out so we used the registration forms for that event as practice. Since both events are run by the same organization, we came to the conclusion that the registration process would be similar - and it turned out to be very true! Obviously, as soon as registration opens, you need to be ready to click on the link from the IM of your choosing's website. Unlike ticketmaster, once you click "register", you do NOT have an entry secured. It is a race to pay for your spot. You are asked to enter all kinds of pointless questions (what are your significant achievements? why are you signing up? will this be your first IM event?, etc). Don't waste your time! Any box with a red asterisk just needs to have SOMETHING entered into it - but you don't have time to list your many accomplishments! You are in a race to register for an Ironman! Do you want your accomplishment to be ALMOST signing up for an Ironman?!? One of our friends spent too much time filling out the questionnaires and by the time he was ready to pay, the "regular" slots were sold out. He had the option of signing up for a foundation entry, which doubles the cost of entry (half of which is tax-deductible) bringing it to almost $1400! In summary, just put a "-" or a "too many to list" in the required boxes and click "continue".
SO, here we are. Officially registered for IM Arizona on November 18th, 2012.
As another option, if you have your heart set on a particular IM event that is at least a year away, think about signing up as a volunteer. Not only will it give you a bird's eye view to what you're getting yourself into, but you can also practically guarantee yourself an entry. On the morning after the event, you can register in person and get priority over anyone signing up online.
Remember, registration is the first step! Be prepared to claim your spot at the starting line!
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