The Run—Not so Flat After All
Yes, Clearwater is pretty much pancake flat. However, there are tons of causeways (bridges) built over the water. The causeways are often high enough to allow big ships to travel underneath—such is the case with the one you'll run over four times.
Four times because the run is two loops (about 6.5 miles each): from Clearwater Beach out to downtown, around neighborhoods and back. According to the Ironman guide, the causeway reaches about a 12 percent grade. (By the fourth uphill in the last 5K to go, I was cursing the causeway.) Thankfully, you at least get a break running down the other side.
Meanwhile, the majority of the run is well-shaded, aid stations are placed at every mile and tons of spectators are cheering along the entire course. There are several more slight hills, but nothing too grueling. The last couple miles are flat with insane cheering—a good way to make up for lost time.
And if your race goes as planned, chances are you can pull off that PR—I did, by nearly 20 minutes.
What About the Spectators?
It's fairly easy for friends and family to access any part of the course. If they're walking, the farthest they'll likely venture is out onto the causeway bridge (about a mile and a half from transition). But staying in transition is just as exciting—there's constant action with the pros finishing in well under four hours, and athletes making their way in and out non-stop.
Unlike some courses, spectators can get very close to the bike and run lanes, transition area and the finish line—you're bound to get some good up-close photos.
Beyond the Race: Accommodations, Parties, etc.
Book a room at a place within walking distance to Ironman Village (at Pier 60) as you're bound to be going back and forth for athlete check-in, bike/gear drop off and the race. There are accommodations to fit all budgets—cheap motels, high-end resorts, even condos. Do your homework before choosing. I went middle of the road price-wise (Holiday Inn) and was stoked on the cleanliness, comfort, coffee, awesome Gulf view and walk-a-bility.
Pack for hot and cold weather. Clearwater is a tropical beach town, but it gets cold at night. If you plan on attending the pre- and post-race Athlete Dinners/Awards, you'll want pants and a jacket (maybe even a beanie) because both events are held on the beach and it gets chilly.
Lastly, be sure to make time to enjoy Clearwater Beach. Remember, you're in a world-renowned vacation destination, and there's lots of fun to be had and beauty to see. You don't need a car to get around, either. For $1.75 per trip ($4 a day) the Jolly Trolley will shuttle you around for sight-seeing, dining, beach-going, etc. Or ride bikes around town and check out the sights.
And after the race, ask around where the after-parties are (one hot spot is Shepherd's Bar, on the beach). Triathletes may live like monks before a race, but afterward they can really let loose.