Michael Duthie doesn't need telling that making predictions for a finishing time in Ironman New Zealand in Taupo tomorrow is a hazardous business.
Duthie, from Carterton, experienced the arduous assignment of swimming 3.8km, cycling 180kms and running 42kms for the first time 2 years ago and is full aware ofthe variables that have to be contended with.
"I guess you always like to set personal goals but it's not the sort of event where you can be too confident you will achieve them," Duthie said yesterday. "You are out there a long time and a lot can change from hour to hour."
Duthie does believe , however, he is better prepared for this year's Ironman than the 2010 event when he finished in a very respectable 13hrs 9mins.
This time, for instance, the fear factor won't be as intimidating as he knows he has the capability of completing the event and finishing "in one piece".
While he is not eyeing a particular finishing time, he is optimistic of breaking the 13hrs mark on this occasion.
"I reckon if I'm 12hrs something I'll be happy ... that would do nicely."
Duthie is in the 50-55yrs group and other Wairarapa or Bush athletes listed amongst the 1650 entrants from 44 countries are Geoffrey Bendall (Eketahuna), Luke Kirkpatrick (Masterton), Olivia Hilhorst (Masterton), Douglas Johnston (Masterton) and Pahiatua duo Kiel Berry and Richard Day.
