It was by far the most difficult course I have ever raced…truly an "epic". Any triathlete that wants to compete in the landmark events of our sport, needs to make the pilgrimage to Auburn to do World’s Toughest Half.
- Steve Larsen, Giro D’Italia. 7x NORBA Natl Champion, IM Lake Placid champion and multiple triathlon bike course records, 2008 World's Toughest Half Champion
Thank you for organizing and hosting an fantastic event. This was my 2nd year competing in the duathlon and I will be back for more. Thank you for looking out for the best interest of us athletes by modifying the run course. I'm sure that there are some race directors who would not have gone to the extra effort to reorganize the run when they saw a 97 degree forecast for race day. You completely made the right call with the increased shade and water stops. You were so well organized that you never ran out of ice. I cannot give enough praise to the volunteers all over the course, especially on the run course. They were out there all day in that 97 deg heat AND they were amazing with the cold water and sponges! I wish I could thank each one of they individually!
- John Madden
Thank you for an awesome race that kicked my butt. That was the best organized, supported, challenging, and relaxed race I have ever done. It was so nice to be a part of an event that was about the athletes and not just about money.event!
- Marguerite Harris
Thanks to Race Director Brad and all the volunteers for the incredible support in the triathlon yesterday! I thought I wasn’t going to be able to finish on the run but those buckets of icy sponges being squeezed over my head made all the difference. Thank you so much for a wonderfully supported and fun event!
- Meg M. Johnson, Sacramento
The course was very well marked and your course volunteers were awesome. It is so great to never wonder if you are going the right way! The aid stations were so well stocked and despite the challenging weather there was plenty of everything. What amazing volunteers! I think you made an excellent call in changing the run course due to the extreme weather. So thanks for the great day.
- Lynn Keane
Second, I want to thank you for an awesome race. This was my 1st time competing in Auburn Triathlon. I did the relay race and even though it was brutally hot - I enjoyed running the 1/2 marathon portion. Everything was well organized and the aid stations were heaven sent. Especially the STC aid station - they were all energetic and awesome. All the volunteers that I encountered were extremely friendly and helpful. Given that everyone was overheated and tired - I felt like the energy and compassion was encouraging to keep me motivated to finish the run :)
- Tiffany Hill
After more than 200 triathlons, I finally set up my schedule to comptete in the "World's Toughest" this year. I am not sure about the toughest part, as I find all races to be as tough as you are willing to make them, but it is fantastic course, mentally and physically challenging for the full race. Overall, it is the most challenging course I have ever done- and this includes several Ironman races (including Kona). Hands down, you definately have the world's best volunteer and support staff. Everyone was helpful, courteous and attentive, fantastic job!
Brian Smallwood – Camarillo, CA
Best International race I’ve ever done. I’ll be back next year.
- Scott Jones, North Bend, WA.
Counterpartcoaching.com
I've done lots of races since I started in 1992 and the World's Toughest Half is by far the most fun and challenging. It has become the one race I plan to do every year I can.
- Jason Gustafson, Visalia, CA
