Slow Guy

I am not saying PEM (Premier Event Management) sucks because that would be wrong.  It would be stating an opinion not a fact.  I do not know for a fact how much sucking PEM does or does not do.  I can not prove their suckiness factor on any type of scale.  All I can do is ask a question in the way that would make FOX News proud:  Does PEM suck?

For my long time reader (thanks Trish) you are aware of what happened before Ironman Augusta:  I caught the flu (apparently all flu is now H1N1) and I could not compete in the event.  I trained 6 months to compete in a 70.3 triathlon.  To describe my state of mind as disappointed would be an understatement.

On Friday the 24th I sent an email to Mr. Burke the head cheese at PEM.  I told him what happened and asked for a refund or deferment for next year.  I seriously doubted I would receive one – it says on the website there are no refunds.  More importantly PEM is a business. They must protect the bottom line at all costs!

My letter:

Mr. Burke,

Today I was diagnosed with the flu – running a fever of 101 degrees. I am writing to inquire about a refund or deferment for medical reasons. I would be happy to provide the note form my physician as well. I was one of the first people to register for the event – the thought of missing it upsets me. At the same time attempting to compete with the flu concerns me.

Pleas contact me by email or phone.

As of today I still haven’t received a response form Mr. Burke.  I did receive a response form one of the other people in the organization:

Hi Duane,

We’re sorry to hear about your recent illness.  Unfortunately, as indicated on the main page of the website, there are no refunds, deferrals or transfers of entries.  Any exceptions to this policy simply cannot be considered at this late date.

I can understand not wanting to give a refund – they have to take care of the professional athletes that show up.  At least send me my goodie bag, offer a credit or an autographed photo of  Desiree Fickler

Desiree

I won’t be looking for anything more from PEM.  I am disappointed that an origination that touts the multisaport lifestyle places policy over people – but not surprised.  Credit card companies find new ways to screw us; why should a race organizer be different?

Reviews for Ironman Augusta have been mixed.  Most all loved the course – swim was fast, bike offered a little bit of everything and the run was lined with spectators.

The complaints have been organizational issues – long slow moving lines and a lack of post race goodies.

Pretty much the same stuff for any event.  It was a new event and some issues are expected.  I’m sure things will improve for next year.

Am I going to do Ironman Augusta next year?  I don’t know.  I am still pissed.  There are some other events including Ironman Boulder and a 70.3 in Wilmington, NC.

I am leaning towards Wilmington because I will hopefully be living there next year.

My final response to PEM:

Thank you for your reply. I am aware of the policy on the web page. My hope was that PEM would take into consideration the situation.

It is unfortunate PEM places profit and policy above the health of the athletes. I made the responsible decision to follow my doctors advice and not attempt the race. It didn’t make sense to risk the health and safety of others or myself just to get my goodie bag and a medal. With all the other issues metro Atlanta has experienced the past week potentially spreading H1N1 around would be irresponsible.

In the future I will refrain from participating in PEM events. I will also be sure to share my story and PEM’s response with others in the multisport community.

’nuff said.