Hi,

I have been reading everyone's post for awhile now, but have never posted until now. I am planning on signing up for my first Ironman for the 2009 season. I would love some input on a good course/destination for my first attempt at the distance. I am a seasoned marathoner and I love the half iron distance, but I really want to do an Ironman. What if the race I really want to do sells out, then what? How fast do these races fill up and is there anyway to quarantee an entry into an event? If I were to volunteer at an event this year, will that help my chances of getting into that event for the 2009 season?

Thanks for any advice you can give me.