IM Switzerland 1996 was in Zurich. Multiple loops on the bike and run made the course compact so competitors and spectators were always around. Being in Switzerland, it wasn’t surprising that two “hills” were named The Beast and Heartbreak Hill. There was a huge, raised platform that you had to bike over three times near the finish that went THROUGH a very large tent where people were drinking and eating. Everybody was cheering and partying. The run had four loops around the downtown area: lights, crowds, music, everything was distracting, yet exciting, and encouraged you to keep going and enjoy the ambiance.