Ironman traffic tie-up

CLEARWATER - While Ironman athletes made record time biking, swimming, and running through Pinellas County Saturday, thousands of drivers found themselves stranded thanks to the event.

Traffic came to a standstill along busy thoroughfares, including Belcher Rd. and Gulf to Bay Blvd., as dozens of miles of road blocks were erected to accommodate the winding triathlon course.

"It's kinda ridiculous. I haven't moved in like 25 minutes," said driver Tia Cardeilhac. "They should have at least alerted us."

Illuminated signs were erected alongside several roads.

However, many drivers found that by the time they saw the flashing warning it was already too late to find an alternative route.

"It's just ridiculous. They should have done a better job," said another driver. "I'm in a hurry to get something done and I'm stuck here for 45 minutes."

Several drivers suggested a change to the course, placing athletes on less-traveled side streets instead of the county's main arteries.

"I would have gone a different way if I'd known this," said driver Malcolm Holmes.

Opposite the parking lot on Gulf to Bay Saturday morning, spectators lined the roads to cheer on the tri-athletes.

"I think it's great. I think it brings a lot of attention to fitness," said Jay Timberlake, who woke up his family early to watch the race speed by. "You've got people from all over world, and it's great to bring them here to the area."

Timberlake and his wife said it was important for their children to see people being active and striving to meet a goal.

Some race fans suggested the frustrated drivers on nearby State Road 60 turn off the car and glance out the window. Stop fuming for a second and take in the once-a-year spectacle, they said.

"It's very inspiring watching all these people," Timberlake said.