Here is my Kona race report. I enjoyed writing it. I tried to bring you along for the race as well as some insights into how I was feeling.
This race report is rated PG, due to a reference about needing a cold shower and the use of edited profanity (particularly on the bike.) Enjoy!
Ford Ironman World Championship, October 13, 2007
Kona, Hawaii
Stacy’s Race Report
You can read about the pre-race activities for the week from the previous posts on my blog. This report starts at 4am on Saturday Oct. 13 and ends at midnight on Sunday.
Swim: 1:27:51 (I wanted to go under 1:40 so I'm a happy camper)
T1: 6:33 (It's my first Ironman and there was more time spent changing clothes)
Bike: 7:23:33 (I got to experience the winds of Kona and yes, it hurts to be on your bike that long)
T2: 11:46 (not a typo, there is a really good explanation for this epic T2 time)
Run: 4:34:07 (This was my favorite part of the race, the sunset was amazing)
Finish Time: 13:43:50 (pretty happy with that actually and Lindsey was there with me at the finish :)
Rise and Shine (insert sound of rooster crowing here):
I slept surprisingly well and woke up about 350am, with my alarm set at 4. I got almost 5 hours of sleep. I was tired as the previous two nights sleep had been interrupted with phone calls about flight delays and cancellations for my mom and Lindsey.
Kona Kevin (aka K2), Dan and I were the first to leave to Kona. After getting dressed and having Protein Power Bar, yogurt and a banana and grabbing my special needs bags, we were off. I was still not nervous but simply excited.
Body Marking:
By about 515, K2 and I got in line to check in our special needs bags and for body marking. As we were standing there, Faris al-Sutan walked by. Little did we know then that he was already planning on dropping out of the race completely. Bummer.
I got in the short line for my race number, and when it was my turn for body marking, there was a camera crew right there filming it. This was completely unexpected. When I was done, the camera was still on me and then Kev walked up. He tried to get out of the shot, but I pulled him over to walk with me while the camera was on us. He had his Amino Vital jersey on – couldn’t pass up that opportunity. Plus he is a media ho, so he was enjoying it.
Transition:
I had to drop off my bike bottles, gel flask and Power Bars at my bike. I also had a picture of Lindsey and a sticker for the Jon Blais foundation that I wanted to carry with me. I also needed to pump up my tires. There was a camera crew there again as well. Jeez, I suppose it is possible I could end up on that NBC show – K2 – you may be right after all. I don't believe it. We will see.
Anyway, I spent maybe 10 minutes at my bike, the shortest time I had ever spent in transition pre-race. Everything else was in my bike and run gear bags. It was actually much simpler to have so little to worry about race morning. I liked it.
State of mind: Calm. What the hell? Where were those nerves? Maybe when I hit the water they would come.
It was now maybe 545am and now I had time to go check out the pros and their bikes. Natasha had already come and gone. As I mentioned, I was over being star struck. That was until I saw Craig Alexander. OH MY GOD! He is now officially the hottest guy (gorgeous in every way) in triathlon and as it turns out – very nice. He was hanging out at his bike by himself and I walked right up to him. While I was drooling on the inside, I was calm, cool and collected while talking to him and we chatted for a couple minutes. I told him to remember to enjoy the day and have fun. Yes, I even tell the pros that! There was no time to snap out of my Alexander encounter with a cold shower - I would have to settle for warm ocean water instead. It was time to get ready for the swim!
After hitting the porta potty, I saw other DC area locals in transition, including Carl Hendricks, Anne Viviani and Paul Graf. Check out the next edition of Tri DC for a feature on these awesome athletes. It was about 630 by now and I found K2.
On our way out of transition we dropped off our pre-swim bags and headed around to the pier and swim entry point. Here we go! And yet – I was still calm. Whatever, I was having fun.
The Swim:
The pros started at 645 and we found ourselves in the water about 5 minutes later. I said goodbye to K2 and told him to, yes, have fun! I headed way to the left of the main pack. K2 went straight in the middle. I started swimming to do a goggle check and make my way out to the start which is about 40 yards from shore.
I stopped swimming at an area about 10 feet behind a small line of people at the start line. There were two, maybe three deep, but that was it. The floating Ford thingy was right there. I looked to my left – only two or three people there - and then looked to my right – there were more there, but not a mass of humanity by any means. Me and a couple other people were treading water in this “hole” in the water. A kayaker was ushering people to move right – we just looked at each other and shook our heads and said, “No way – I’m not moving from this spot!” Any nerves now? Maybe a little, but by no means was I freaked out and could not have been happier with my swim start location. Brian Hain, you were right- of course there wouldn't be 1800 people around me - I had just three or four - awesome!
Before we knew it, there was a countdown and then the cannon went off – BOOM! Here we go! I was now doing the Hawaii Ironman. Un – freaking- believable! I just started swimming, never getting hit or hitting anyone. I got into a groove and tried to catch a draft a couple times. They were either too fast, too slow or swam terribly crooked. Many of these people zig zagged so much I wondered how the hell these people qualified as they surely must end up swimming 3 miles in the end! I didn’t even try to follow them. I then remembered that I forgot to start my watch. It had been less than 5 minutes since the start, so I started it right away.
You don’t have to sight much at Kona as there are people around you and I was close enough to the buoys that sighting was not an issue. What I was really looking forward to was seeing the turn around boat. Finally, it came into view but it still took about 10-15 minutes to get there. They “funnel” everyone into a smaller corridor around the boat and as we got closer, it got more physical.
Most people are just like me – trying to make it through without bodily harm, but some people are downright aggressive. One guy practically swam over me and I actually yelled at him and called him an inconsiderate jerk (ah, maybe I inserted a word starting with an f and ending with a g before the word jerk– I can’t remember :) What an ass he was. I stayed calm and just tried to make it through this washing machine of human bodies.
It remained more crowded on the 1.2 miles back to the pier and was able to catch a draft a couple times, but it never lasted long. Again, I saw more crooked swimmers at Kona that at any local race in the DC area. You should all be very proud of yourselves, because some of these people were out of control.
It seemed to take FOREVER to get back, but finally we made it. I climbed the stairs up to the hoses to rinse off the salt and looked at my watch. It said 1:29 something and I was ecstatic – as I had remembered that I also forgot to start my watch right away. I was pumped and let out a “WooooHooo!”. I had just swum under 1:30! I was hoping to go sub 1:40, so this was awesome news. I smiled the whole way to grab my bike gear bag and head to T1.
T1:
I entered the change tent and chatted with the volunteer assigned to help me. At Ironman, you get your own personal volunteer – particularly when there aren’t a lot of other people around. She was a sweetheart and was like a grandma and I thanked her as I gave her a kiss on the cheek before heading out of the tent. I had a long way to run around transition at the pier to get to my bike. The racks were very empty. I am used to that though and told those around me, “Let’s go catch some of some of those swimmers”. I am such a geek, but I didn’t care.
I got to my rack and with my bike headed out of T1. It’s funny, while it was different in many ways then other races, Kona is still the same in other ways. You still have to grab your bike, mount when they tell you and head out on the road, just like any other race. But what is obviously so different in the crowd size and enthusiasm. I was pumped and after getting on my bike and heading up to Palani Drive, I got the crowd cheering and yelling on my way out. This was a once in a lifetime thing and I was going to enjoy the hell out of it! WoooooHoooooo! Here we go, baby, the bike.
The Bike:
After riding about 10 miles in town, you head up Palani to the Queen K and then out to the airport and eventually Hawi. There are some up hill sections to the airport, but nothing that big. Just rollers really. There was no wind at this point. No head wind, no tail wind and no cross wind. Maybe a light breeze but that was it. I didn’t want to jinx it and tried not to think about it too much, but just wanted to take advantage of these amazing conditions.
The first 40 or so miles were incredible. I was actually having fun (this was my main goal after all). I cheered and thanked volunteers as I passed through aid stations. Their support is amazing and they are as pumped as the athletes and are masters at passing off water bottles and food.
I was riding along enjoying the ride and then the NBC camera crew came by. We chatted as they filmed me and then there was a down hill. While on my training bike rides when I have a long straight away or down hill, I say out loud or think to myself, “I feel the need for speed!” Scott Talbott and Roy Rumsey will remember this from one of our rides. My thought is not original, but it works for me (and I get a visual of a very hot Tom Cruise in Top Gun).
I felt that need at the time and took off. Whoooo, freaking Hoooooo - again! I was flying! I will remember this moment with great envy many times throughout the latter part of the bike ride.
Eventually, we made the slight turn to the left on the road and climb up to Hawi. Here we go. There were some slight climbs to start. Ok. Not too bad at all – thanks Susan Gantz for taking us on those hellacious bike rides with real hills! We need to do more of those. So, the hills were doable. Nothing scary, nothing real steep. Just gradual climbs and although sometimes they were long, they were still manageable. What we don’t have here in Virginia is the wind.
The wind started fairly soon after the turn up to Hawi. It was a headwind and hit you right in the face. Ok. It’s Hawaii and can be windy. “I am not being blown off my bike, I am ok, stay calm and just keep pedaling” I tell myself. So, for the next 18 or so miles, I just kept pedaling – into the wind with a gradual uphill.
I had few good moments on the way up to Hawi and tried to stay positive mentally. This was the challenge – it wasn’t a physical challenge – but a mental one. I started to wonder if I could make the bike cutoff. I had never considered this as a factor in my six months of training and preparation. “Stay calm, keep pedaling – you are almost there” I tell myself.
The final climb is a bitch. You are spent, you just want to turn around and get your special needs bag and the ride down hill out of Hawi, which I needed more than air and water at this point. The crowd and volunteer support was great here as well. I finally made the turnaround and grabbed my special needs bag.
I am riding along with my bag as the first thing I grab is a plastic bag with tampons in it. I didn’t need them and put them in there as a precaution. I put them back in the bag and next I pull out a baggy with Skittles and Twizzlers candy. Oh boy! I put that right into my RATs bike jersey. Then I pull out Ibuprofen. Just in case. Ok, things are looking up. Finally, I grab the peanut butter crackers. Oh yeah, here is the meal equivalent of a steak with a baked potato with butter and sour cream. Allright! I am feeling good. Let’s go, baby. We have a long down hill coming up and you are ready to have a feast. Yeah! I drop the special needs bag and finally I get aero for the first time in a very long time as I munch away at my candy and crackers.
It is a great opportunity to make up time for the long climb. I am flying and enjoying the ride downhill. Thank God! Then out of blue - BAMB! A brutal cross wind. Holy Shit! What the F? I was pushed several feet to the right by the wind that came from the left and I almost lost control of my bike. What is going on? I am going downhill and this wind is going to not only slow me down but practically blow me off my bike? I slow down. BAMB! Again. Shit! Ok. Get out of aero and hang on. Keep pedaling. Ok, ok, ok. It’s ok. Hang on. Stay calm. Cadence. Keep it up and hang on. BAMB! Another strong gust of wind. Fu**! You have got to be kidding me! Well, this is what I had heard about. Lucky me, I get to experience it first hand.
We finally get past this point in the ride that is notorious for its brutal crosswinds and I finally get aero again. I actually have a few good moments here but still…what is up ahead? One of the brightest moments of the ride down from Hawi was at about mile 70 when I knew I would make the cutoff and maybe or even probably, I would be an Ironman. I got teary eyed.
We get to the turn to head back to Kona on the Queen K. Finally. Thank God. I know this road pretty well now. Some rollers to come, many are climbs but they are doable. Right turn. “Kailua Kona – 26” the highway sign says. Ok. 26 miles to go. I can do this.
I make the turn and immediately feel a headwind right in my face! “Are you f**king kidding me?” I actually said that out loud to no one in particular. I was delusional to think that the conditions would be the same as when I was here just a few short hours ago with no wind, at all. Keep dreaming, Stacy.
Here comes the biggest lesson of all my training and racing since doing marathons back in my early 20s. Never, ever, ever, give up mentally. Physically, of course it happens, you have to listen to your body. Sometimes you just can’t go faster or you can’t go on. But mentally, you always can do more than you think. That last 15 or so miles of the bike was the hardest time for me ever in all my racing over all these years. And it was all mental. I let the wind beat me. I gave in. I didn’t try. I was upright most of the time. Physically I was feeling pretty good. Sure I was sore, I was tired, but I wasn’t beat physically. I was beat mentally. My mind wasn’t allowing my body to push harder. This is a huge lesson for me, and a good one. Don’t ever let your mind beat you.
The greatest sight on the bike is when you can see the airport. You know that you have less than 10 miles to go and much of it is downhill. It was time to think about T2 and the run. I wasn’t hating my bike at this point, but really, really wanted to start running. I wanted to do anything at that point except be on my bike against that wind.
As when I left 7 hours + before, the crowds were amazing. The pro men had finished and the first pro women were finishing and I had a marathon to run. But I was ready. I never let that distance get to me even during my mental struggle on the bike. I knew I could do this. The positive mental strength was coming back.
T2:
I love transitions. It’s a time to think about what is next. You are ready for something new, something different. In this case it was a marathon. My T2 time: 11:46. What the hell, Stacy? You are a master of transitions. What the heck were you doing in there? Some people have been asking me. Two reasons for this epic T2 time.
First, I got my period in the last part of the bike. When I first got into the transition tent, I asked, “Do you have a tampon?” They had one there for me immediately. Enough said.
The second reason my time was slow was that I simply took my time. I did not hurry whatsoever. This race is different and I had a personal assistant (volunteer) to help me. I visited the porta potty and then chatted with my personal assistant about the bike. She had heard it was pretty brutal. They really pay attention to you to make sure you are ok. I was ok. And after 11 minutes and 46 seconds, I took off on my marathon.
The Run:
I took off on the run and saw my daughter Lindsey. I was heading up Palani out of T2 and she was there with Tony. She said, “Mom, I am so proud of you”. “Thank you baby”. The bike was brutal, I almost got blown off my bike” I told them. Why I said that I don’t know but that is what I said. But it helped me realize that it was time to let the bike go.
So I did. I felt so good. I moved on to the run. My legs were not jellowy at all ( I love bricks!) Remember, I didn’t leave it out there on the bike physically, but rather just mentally. I was moving and began to pass people on the run. I felt strong and my first 10 miles flew by. It is so cool to run down Alii drive like that. You head south on Alii drive for about five miles and then back up to the Hot Corner and up Palani to the Queen K and then out to the Energy Lab. The next time I would be on Alii Drive was right at the end for about the last half mile or so.
I was out on the Queen K for about 2 miles and then the sun was setting. There were no clouds that day – at all – which makes for a perfect sunset. I had never watched a sunset as I ran and it simply was the second most perfect moment of my entire day. It was beautiful and it energized me even more.
The run is on the same course as the bike up until the Energy Lab, about 6 miles out of Kona. I still felt so good – it was amazing. I had my Clif Shot Blocks, which since setting my PR at the Lake Anna Half on Sept. 8, I now refer to as my “Magic Little Pieces of Candy”. These things are amazing and I was so tired of gel.
It was getting very dark (the sun sets about 615pm) and I grabbed the first of my two glow sticks at an aid station at about mile 15. So cool – I was running with a glow stick. All those super fast people just don’t know what they’re missing. It was like a badge of honor – I had a glow stick!
I made it to the Energy Lab turn off, took the left and headed down. It was pitch black – there were very few lights and I couldn’t see a thing, most of the time, I couldn’t even see the pavement in front of me. K2 told me later that when he ran down there (in daylight) he felt like he was running on the moon. I suppose that is true, except I was running on the “Dark Side of the Moon”, although Pink Floyd was not in sight, there were no laser lights and I wasn’t stoned :)
I was at about mile 18 just before the turn around and Special Needs handoff at the Energy Lab when the NBC camera crew showed up. “Hey Stacy” they said. “What’s up guys? This is a long day for you too” I say. I was still feeling pretty good at this point, so I took advantage of the moment. “Who won?” I asked. “McCormack. “Chris McCormack”, he said. Macca! Yes, it was my prediction for the men! I knew he wanted it more than the others. Awesome! How about the women? No response. Who won for the women? I already knew Natascha was out and saw her along the Queen K at about mile 5 on the bike with a broken collar bone and had seen that Desiree had blown up on the Queen K during the run when I was coming in on my bike, but I was clueless after that. One guy answered very quietly. “Wellington”. Who? “Wellington”. “Wellington? Who the heck is that?” I asked. Jeez, what a crazy day, I thought. “How did the Americans do?” I asked. They couldn’t provide much information. Oh well, I would find out later.
I reach the run Special Needs bag hand off but I wasn’t as excited about it as I was on the bike. They didn’t have it ready when I ran by, but a volunteer grabbed it, and ran to catch up with me in his flip flops. These volunteers are awesome. He may have been motivated by the camera crew filming me during this time, but I was happy he caught up to us and I got my bag. The NBC guys said I was looking strong. Thanks guys! I don’t have much of an ego, but what little there is, you just gave it a boost.
I ran with the bag for a while as it was pitch black, and I wouldn’t have been able to tell if I was grabbing the bag with the tampons or Twizzlers. I waited to get what I wanted out of the bag until I could see using the few lights which were set up at the Ford Motivational section, right before you leave the Energy Lab at about mile 19.5. Once there I ate a couple Skittles, a piece of a Twizzler and tossed the rest. It was time to concentrate on getting to the finish.
There is a bit of a climb out of the Energy Lab and when you get back to the Queen K, you can’t help but pick up the pace. Allright. We had about 6 miles to go – mostly downhill. I had resisted the cola until about mile 17 and hadn’t tried the chicken broth until this point, but now it was time to partake in the nectar of the Ironman gods. Forget the water, Gatorade and gel. Bring on the nectar. It was all Cola, all Chicken Broth for the next few miles (I did take water) but I was even getting tired of my life saving Clif Shot Blocks.
At about mile 20, the NBC guys caught up with me again. “Hi Stacy” they said. “Hey guys”, I said. “How are feeling?” they asked. I had slowed considerably since they last saw me. “I hit the wall at about mile 19, heading out of the Energy Lab.” I told them this was to be expected and was simply focused on the finish and seeing Lindsey there. They wished me well and said that they would catch me at the finish. “Ok, see you guys there”.
Never had I had this much concentration and focus on a race ever. Having the pitch black night surrounding me may have helped, but I seemed to be running through a dark tunnel with the orange lights of Kona and the finish line in the distance at the end of the tunnel. Wow man, what a trip, maybe I was stoned after all.
Other runners and volunteers commented on how strong I looked and I thanked them, but I was simply on a mission. To finish and become and Ironman with Lindsey there with me. Nothing else mattered. I just kept running. It’s funny, my mantras all day were: “Stay Calm. Keep swimming, keep pedaling, keep running”. That’s all you need to do for Ironman. It's very simple, really. Just keep moving forward, no matter the speed.
Amazingly, there were still people heading out to the Energy Lab as I made my way back into town. While it felt much later, it was only just after 8pm. They had almost four hours to finish – plenty of time. I saw Scott Rigsby who would become the first double leg amputee to finish an Ironman. His story is heart wrenching. Go buddy, you can do it.
I made it back to Palani Drive. It is down hill after that, you make a left down the Kaliki Highway (or something spelled like that) and then down to Alii Drive. I had walked up and down Alii all week, I even ran and biked parts of it, but this was something else. I was now running down Alii toward the finish. I kept looking for Lindsey. People were cheering like crazy and I had slowed considerably, just to enjoy the moment.
Have you ever had a dream that seemed so real that when you woke up you couldn’t believe it wasn’t true? I had the opposite happen. I was awake, and yet it seemed like a dream. I couldn’t believe it was happening, but it was real.
After a couple minutes, I finally saw her. Lindsey was standing there waiting for me in her Army uniform. She looked so beautiful and I ran up, stopped and gave her a big hug. We began to run holding hands and the crowd was amazing, cheering us the entire way.
Very close to the finish, a woman fell right in front of us. I had seen her earlier up on the highway and encouraged her to continue, but at this point, she was simply in the way. There was a guy helping her, so we ran around her. There was nothing I could do, but I thought, “Jeez, you are 20 feet away from the finish, you couldn’t make it the rest of the way”?
Anyway, the finish was amazing. I was so happy to have Lindsey there with me. She does not like people paying special attention to her at all, but she was so supportive with me at the finish. There were all kinds of cameras on us and she met Rob Vigorito, and Jon Blais’ parents and she had no clue who they were. But she was gracious and polite to them and helped me through the finish area.
Post Race:
I was walking pretty well and made it over to get my medal. My mind was starting to get kind of fuzzy and I knew I needed some real food. I had lost my voice sometime during the day and I wasn’t talking well. We made our way to a restaurant overlooking the finish and ordered some food. I needed protein – badly. I had some yummy coconut crusted Tilapia and rice with water and a diet coke. Perfect. Finally, my head was clearing up a bit, but I was tired. It was now around 1030 and I wanted to stick around and watch the finish until midnight.
Watching an Ironman for the last couple of hours is something everyone should witness at least once. While you may have been done for hours, these people were still out there – pushing their bodies beyond a pain threshold they certainly had passed hours ago. These last Ironmen are tougher mentally than you or I. Scott Rigsby came in with less than 15 minutes left and there was maybe only one or two after that. Then it was midnight. Almost silence at this point – no one left to cheer and encourage across the line. Kind of sad really, as we all wanted to keep the party going and welcome more Ironmen home.
This day I will never forget. From the moment the cannon went off to start the swim, to the wind on the bike, the sunset on the run and finally the finish with Lindsey, this will go down as one of the best and most rewarding days of my life.
From Macca to Kona Kevin and me to Scott Rigsby and all those that finish Kona or any other Ironman race and regardless of our finish times, we all have something that no one can ever take away from us. We Are all An Ironman.
Lindsey, baby, I could not do all this without your support and understanding. I love you more than I could ever put into words, I am so happy you were there with me. You told me you want to do this race someday, so I say that the next time we are in Kona – I will hold your hand across the finish line and you too will become an Ironman!
I love you, baby.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
Monday, October 15, 2007
Kona Post Race, Sunday and Monday
I did it. It simply was the most amazing week and day of my life. You can tell that by watching the video of me finishing with Lindsey. I could not have been happier and still can't seem to wipe that grin off my face. I don't have time for a full race report now but here are some major highlights of the day:
Swim: I felt more excitment than nervousness and I didn't get hit at all as I placed myself in a place with very few people, until the turnaround.
Bike: It was windy and it was hard.
Run: Amazing. I was up on the Queen K highway at sunset and it was the most beautiful sight to see as I ran out to the Energy Lab.
See you all soon.
Stacy
Swim: I felt more excitment than nervousness and I didn't get hit at all as I placed myself in a place with very few people, until the turnaround.
Bike: It was windy and it was hard.
Run: Amazing. I was up on the Queen K highway at sunset and it was the most beautiful sight to see as I ran out to the Energy Lab.
See you all soon.
Stacy
Friday, October 12, 2007
Ironman Eve - Friday, Oct. 12
I have good news and bad news.
Good news: Lindsey's flight just left San Francisco and will be arriving in Kona around 7pm tonight.
Bad News: After spending two days trying to get here from Oregon, my mom will not make it. They finally got her on a flight from Eugene to San Francisco, but it would arrive too late to make the connection. We are very sad, but there just isn't anything else we can do. Plus my mom is 71 and has had maybe 6 or 7 hours sleep over these last two days and desperately needed sleep and couldn't wait around another day to try to get here.
I just got back from racking my bike. Wow. I just racked my bike at Kona! I am in the third rack from the front, which means that while I will be running further from the T1 transition tent, I will be right at the T1 exit. I was escorted by a volunteer who took me to my rack and walked me around transition to the bike gear bag and run gear bag areas.
Macca was hanging out two racks away talking to a reporter. I didn't hang out to watch any other pros rack their bikes, as I just wanted to get back to the condo and chill for the rest of the day.
After having my pre-race linguine with white clam sauce and bowl of Mocha Almond Fudge Ice Cream, I will head out to the airport to pick up Lindsey. I sure wish my mom was going to be here too, but I am so glad Lindsey will make it.
It's almost here. Just over 17 hours to race start. 17 hours. I am ok. I am still calm. I am excited. I am tired. I am going to take a nap.
See you soon.
Stacy
Good news: Lindsey's flight just left San Francisco and will be arriving in Kona around 7pm tonight.
Bad News: After spending two days trying to get here from Oregon, my mom will not make it. They finally got her on a flight from Eugene to San Francisco, but it would arrive too late to make the connection. We are very sad, but there just isn't anything else we can do. Plus my mom is 71 and has had maybe 6 or 7 hours sleep over these last two days and desperately needed sleep and couldn't wait around another day to try to get here.
I just got back from racking my bike. Wow. I just racked my bike at Kona! I am in the third rack from the front, which means that while I will be running further from the T1 transition tent, I will be right at the T1 exit. I was escorted by a volunteer who took me to my rack and walked me around transition to the bike gear bag and run gear bag areas.
Macca was hanging out two racks away talking to a reporter. I didn't hang out to watch any other pros rack their bikes, as I just wanted to get back to the condo and chill for the rest of the day.
After having my pre-race linguine with white clam sauce and bowl of Mocha Almond Fudge Ice Cream, I will head out to the airport to pick up Lindsey. I sure wish my mom was going to be here too, but I am so glad Lindsey will make it.
It's almost here. Just over 17 hours to race start. 17 hours. I am ok. I am still calm. I am excited. I am tired. I am going to take a nap.
See you soon.
Stacy
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Kona Update, Thursday, Oct. 11
I got a call from my mom at 5am this morning. She had been stuck on I5 in traffic for four hours and had missed her plane to San Francisco from Eugene, Oregon. I told her to go ahead and go to the airport and see what they could do to get her later today or tomorrow. As it turns out, she will be in the same time tomorrow. I am so glad about that.
In the mean time, Kevin's family was at San Francisco waiting to leave to Kona. These stories are related and I will let you read Kevin's blog for the update later. He should also be reporting on the underwear run, which he did.
Kevin's parents are here and after the run and a swim, we went and had breakfast and coffee with them. Then off to the Ironman Village.
As I mentioned, I am officially over being start struck, but nontheless I wanted to catch a photo of five people fielding questions from the audience from the Triathlete tent: Dede Greisbauer, Lisa Bentley, Karen Smyers, Michael Lavato and Bryan Rhodes. I was up front taking pictures and the announcer guy walks up to me and asks if I have a question. "I haven't thought of one. Let's see. Ok, let's say it's going to be a really tough wind day out on the bike, what are your suggestions on how to handle it?"
Lisa gave some really good advice about not letting it get to you mentally. Michael Lavato talked about nutrition and that while the wind can make you feel like you are cooled off, you still have to hydrate continually. It was Karen who had some really great advice. She said to look for the rock crops along the side that can briefly break the wind to give you a chance to quickly hydrate. Also, look at the person in front of you. If they come out from behind one of those rock formations and get blown to the side, be prepared for it. Awesome advice. You don't get a chance like that. By the way, Kona Kevin thinks Dede Griesbauer is hot.
I pick up Tony from the airport at 2 today and may go down to the snorkeling beach for an easy swim. I got in about a mile yesterday, so I am pretty much good to go with that.
The Carbo Load party is tonight. It should be fun and I will post pictures from that tomorrow.
In the mean time, Kevin's family was at San Francisco waiting to leave to Kona. These stories are related and I will let you read Kevin's blog for the update later. He should also be reporting on the underwear run, which he did.
Kevin's parents are here and after the run and a swim, we went and had breakfast and coffee with them. Then off to the Ironman Village.
As I mentioned, I am officially over being start struck, but nontheless I wanted to catch a photo of five people fielding questions from the audience from the Triathlete tent: Dede Greisbauer, Lisa Bentley, Karen Smyers, Michael Lavato and Bryan Rhodes. I was up front taking pictures and the announcer guy walks up to me and asks if I have a question. "I haven't thought of one. Let's see. Ok, let's say it's going to be a really tough wind day out on the bike, what are your suggestions on how to handle it?"
Lisa gave some really good advice about not letting it get to you mentally. Michael Lavato talked about nutrition and that while the wind can make you feel like you are cooled off, you still have to hydrate continually. It was Karen who had some really great advice. She said to look for the rock crops along the side that can briefly break the wind to give you a chance to quickly hydrate. Also, look at the person in front of you. If they come out from behind one of those rock formations and get blown to the side, be prepared for it. Awesome advice. You don't get a chance like that. By the way, Kona Kevin thinks Dede Griesbauer is hot.
I pick up Tony from the airport at 2 today and may go down to the snorkeling beach for an easy swim. I got in about a mile yesterday, so I am pretty much good to go with that.
The Carbo Load party is tonight. It should be fun and I will post pictures from that tomorrow.
Kona Update, Wednesday, Part 2
Wednesday was a big day. I spent all day gripping the phone (except during my swim) in anticipation of Lindsey calling me so I could tell her she was coming to Kona afterall.
After the Macca sighting at the Ironman village, I headed back to the condo and got ready to head out for a short, easy bike ride. Besides the pre-race ride, this was going to be it until Saturday.
With still no call from Lindsey, I headed out along Alii drive and up from Keauhou into Kona (with my phone in hand - well tucked in my bike shorts anyway). There was and has been lots of traffic - cars, triathletes on bikes, triathletes running - the town is really pretty crazy right now. And today there were two cruise ships docked, so the people from those were also out in the streets. I carefully maneuvered through town. I wanted to go up Palini Drive from T1, as I had not done this yet. The short climb looks deceptively steep and I found it not to be as bad as expected. I headed out along the Queen K south this time for a bit and then turned back the way I came.
It was about 2pm when I got back to the condo and still no call from Lindsey. It was 8pm in Columbia, SC where she is in bootcamp. I wasn't getting worried yet, as I know they were getting back from the field sometime late in the day.
It was time to get ready for my NBC interview at 330. NBC had contacted me on Monday and were interested in talking with me. No, this does not mean for sure that I am going to be on the show. They are interviewing alot of other people who all have incredible stories have courage, strength and inspiration that are amazing. Only a few of the stories make the final cut.
I arrived for the interview. Everyone was very nice and we began right away. I told them that I am expecting a call from my daughter and apologized in advance for answering if it rang during the interview.
This interview was different than the others. There was a white background with a light on and the room was dark, but surprisingly I wasn't nervous - I remained calm (I am now making this my mantra this week - remain calm).
He asked a simple question about triathlon and the Ironman and I began to tell my story. I don't know where it came from, but I just started from the beginning and let it all out. It was kind of like therapy. Yes, of course - I was crying! Damn it - again! Christ, I think they are trying to be like Barbara Walters!
I am not sure how long I talked, but they didn't stop me. I actually got a call in the middle of the interview and answered right away. Oh my god, is this Lindsey? Nope, it was a friend and I told them I would call back later. Boy, that would have been really crazy had she called during that interview.
They followed up with a few more questions and we were done. I was leaving and then walking in for her interview was Desiree Ficker. You know, I am officially over the star struck stuff as these pros are everywhere. I told her to kick some butt, and she said you too (I didn't want to be cliche and say "good luck").
I like to be different.
Once outside, I was directed to go speak with Greg Welch with Ironman Live. com.
Ok, what the hell? This is now officially unbelievable. Jeez.
Greg came over and introduced himself and we sat down on a bench and started talking. He is a great interviewer and it was more like a conversation. We talked about how I was feeling in general and about the swim and bike. I mentioned about the predictions for a very tough wind year on the bike and that I would just take whatever came my way and just keep pedaling and not let it get to me mentally.
We talked about my daughter and that my mom was also coming to watch. Hey, wait a minute - I wasn't crying this time! Maybe because I had just got out of my therapy/NBC interview I didn't have any tears left. Hooray! I was going to make it through one of these without tears!
We continued our chat, and then he looked down at my wristband with my race number and he said "Stacy, I just noticed that your race number is 171. Your daughter is 17, and your mom is 71. That is a good sign." I looked down as well and said, "Oh my god, you're right, I didn't even notice that!" Well, so much for the moratorium on the tears. Here they came and I hugged him right there. He signed off with me once again sobbing like a little baby with my arms around his neck.
Greg Welch is such a sweetheart and we have a kinship as he too suffered from Ventricular Tachycardia that unfortunately forced this Ironman Hall of Famer to retire.
We finished up and said goodbye. Still no call from Lindsey. It was now just after 4pm (10 pm Eastern). I headed to grab a couple things from the grocery store. I had just picked up the first thing and the phone rang. Oh my god! I briefly noticed the area code of 803 - 803? Usually when Lindsey called it would just say, "Call".
Hello? "Hey mom". Oh my god. Lindsey. Hey baby. I headed right out the store and through my crying (boy, after this - no more crying for the rest of the week). I told her that she was coming to Kona. She said, "Mom, you have to stop crying I can't understand you." I actually think she may have thought something was terribly wrong because they let her call me at about 1030 at night. I realized this and calmed down (mantra - remain calm).
"Lindsey, baby they are letting you come to Kona. "Are you serious?" she asked. "Yes, I contacted your company commander and they said yes". Then she was quiet. "Lindsey, sweetie are you still there?" No words. But very quietly I could hear it - she was crying. Believe me, she doesn't cry much at all and certainly will never be told she is a crybaby like her mother. "Baby, it's ok. Your coming to Kona." "I am so happy" she said. "The drill sergeant just told me I am not allowed to cry and I have to hang up now" (he was just kidding) but she did have to go. She said she would call me again on tomorrow.
Lindsey is coming to Kona. She arrives on Friday at 653pm. I cannot wait to see her.
After the Macca sighting at the Ironman village, I headed back to the condo and got ready to head out for a short, easy bike ride. Besides the pre-race ride, this was going to be it until Saturday.
With still no call from Lindsey, I headed out along Alii drive and up from Keauhou into Kona (with my phone in hand - well tucked in my bike shorts anyway). There was and has been lots of traffic - cars, triathletes on bikes, triathletes running - the town is really pretty crazy right now. And today there were two cruise ships docked, so the people from those were also out in the streets. I carefully maneuvered through town. I wanted to go up Palini Drive from T1, as I had not done this yet. The short climb looks deceptively steep and I found it not to be as bad as expected. I headed out along the Queen K south this time for a bit and then turned back the way I came.
It was about 2pm when I got back to the condo and still no call from Lindsey. It was 8pm in Columbia, SC where she is in bootcamp. I wasn't getting worried yet, as I know they were getting back from the field sometime late in the day.
It was time to get ready for my NBC interview at 330. NBC had contacted me on Monday and were interested in talking with me. No, this does not mean for sure that I am going to be on the show. They are interviewing alot of other people who all have incredible stories have courage, strength and inspiration that are amazing. Only a few of the stories make the final cut.
I arrived for the interview. Everyone was very nice and we began right away. I told them that I am expecting a call from my daughter and apologized in advance for answering if it rang during the interview.
This interview was different than the others. There was a white background with a light on and the room was dark, but surprisingly I wasn't nervous - I remained calm (I am now making this my mantra this week - remain calm).
He asked a simple question about triathlon and the Ironman and I began to tell my story. I don't know where it came from, but I just started from the beginning and let it all out. It was kind of like therapy. Yes, of course - I was crying! Damn it - again! Christ, I think they are trying to be like Barbara Walters!
I am not sure how long I talked, but they didn't stop me. I actually got a call in the middle of the interview and answered right away. Oh my god, is this Lindsey? Nope, it was a friend and I told them I would call back later. Boy, that would have been really crazy had she called during that interview.
They followed up with a few more questions and we were done. I was leaving and then walking in for her interview was Desiree Ficker. You know, I am officially over the star struck stuff as these pros are everywhere. I told her to kick some butt, and she said you too (I didn't want to be cliche and say "good luck").
I like to be different.
Once outside, I was directed to go speak with Greg Welch with Ironman Live. com.
Ok, what the hell? This is now officially unbelievable. Jeez.
Greg came over and introduced himself and we sat down on a bench and started talking. He is a great interviewer and it was more like a conversation. We talked about how I was feeling in general and about the swim and bike. I mentioned about the predictions for a very tough wind year on the bike and that I would just take whatever came my way and just keep pedaling and not let it get to me mentally.
We talked about my daughter and that my mom was also coming to watch. Hey, wait a minute - I wasn't crying this time! Maybe because I had just got out of my therapy/NBC interview I didn't have any tears left. Hooray! I was going to make it through one of these without tears!
We continued our chat, and then he looked down at my wristband with my race number and he said "Stacy, I just noticed that your race number is 171. Your daughter is 17, and your mom is 71. That is a good sign." I looked down as well and said, "Oh my god, you're right, I didn't even notice that!" Well, so much for the moratorium on the tears. Here they came and I hugged him right there. He signed off with me once again sobbing like a little baby with my arms around his neck.
Greg Welch is such a sweetheart and we have a kinship as he too suffered from Ventricular Tachycardia that unfortunately forced this Ironman Hall of Famer to retire.
We finished up and said goodbye. Still no call from Lindsey. It was now just after 4pm (10 pm Eastern). I headed to grab a couple things from the grocery store. I had just picked up the first thing and the phone rang. Oh my god! I briefly noticed the area code of 803 - 803? Usually when Lindsey called it would just say, "Call".
Hello? "Hey mom". Oh my god. Lindsey. Hey baby. I headed right out the store and through my crying (boy, after this - no more crying for the rest of the week). I told her that she was coming to Kona. She said, "Mom, you have to stop crying I can't understand you." I actually think she may have thought something was terribly wrong because they let her call me at about 1030 at night. I realized this and calmed down (mantra - remain calm).
"Lindsey, baby they are letting you come to Kona. "Are you serious?" she asked. "Yes, I contacted your company commander and they said yes". Then she was quiet. "Lindsey, sweetie are you still there?" No words. But very quietly I could hear it - she was crying. Believe me, she doesn't cry much at all and certainly will never be told she is a crybaby like her mother. "Baby, it's ok. Your coming to Kona." "I am so happy" she said. "The drill sergeant just told me I am not allowed to cry and I have to hang up now" (he was just kidding) but she did have to go. She said she would call me again on tomorrow.
Lindsey is coming to Kona. She arrives on Friday at 653pm. I cannot wait to see her.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Kona Update, Wednesday Part 1 Oct. 10
This is the day. The day when I get to tell Lindsey she is coming to Kona. I am so excited!
I started the day with a easy mile swim out to the boat with the Kona coffee they were giving to the swimmers. I didn't have any coffee, but the swim was great. There was bigger chop than Sunday but it was actually kind of fun - up and over the waves I went.
Today was one of the registration days. We were heading into get our packets and found Desiree Ficker hanging outside the entrace. Kona Kev said "Hey Desiree" and I said "Hi". What the heck else do you say? We also saw Normann again who was heading into register, just like the rest of us. What a great sport this is, even at the World Championship.
We headed to Lava Java to eat. We were starved. We scored a big table and invited another party to join us. Kev was then off to the airport to pick up his folks.
I was heading back to the car and while passing the Ironman Village heard a familiar voice coming from the loudspeaker. Is that Chris McCormack? It sure sounded like him. I went into the village and found a surprisingly small crowd surrounding the table where he was fielding questions from the crowd. Holy crap - he was right there. Jeez! How cool was this? I started taking pictures and then asked a question, "I saw your recent Inside Triathlon cover - what's next, GQ?" If you have seen it ladies, I suggest you do - he looks so HOT! He laughed and said that his wife asked him why he doesn't look like that all the time!
Alot going on today, look for Wednesday Part 2.
I started the day with a easy mile swim out to the boat with the Kona coffee they were giving to the swimmers. I didn't have any coffee, but the swim was great. There was bigger chop than Sunday but it was actually kind of fun - up and over the waves I went.
Today was one of the registration days. We were heading into get our packets and found Desiree Ficker hanging outside the entrace. Kona Kev said "Hey Desiree" and I said "Hi". What the heck else do you say? We also saw Normann again who was heading into register, just like the rest of us. What a great sport this is, even at the World Championship.
We headed to Lava Java to eat. We were starved. We scored a big table and invited another party to join us. Kev was then off to the airport to pick up his folks.
I was heading back to the car and while passing the Ironman Village heard a familiar voice coming from the loudspeaker. Is that Chris McCormack? It sure sounded like him. I went into the village and found a surprisingly small crowd surrounding the table where he was fielding questions from the crowd. Holy crap - he was right there. Jeez! How cool was this? I started taking pictures and then asked a question, "I saw your recent Inside Triathlon cover - what's next, GQ?" If you have seen it ladies, I suggest you do - he looks so HOT! He laughed and said that his wife asked him why he doesn't look like that all the time!
Alot going on today, look for Wednesday Part 2.
Kona Update -Tuesday, Oct. 9
Tuesday was a good day. I slept in and relaxed around the condo first thing in the morning.
At 730, I had breakfast with Mark Allen. Yes, THE Mark Allen. There were a bunch of us and it was really great. He is so incredibly down to earth. I am finding that most if not all pro triathletes, current and past are so easy going.
He said he doesn't race anymore but runs, works out with weights and surfs. He said he hasn't been in a pool in two years. The Grip himself. Wow.
At 930 I had an interview with the Ironman Public Relations people. They wanted to know about my past heart condition as well as about Lindsey coming to see me in Kona. Of course - I cried - again. Damn it! Why do they keep doing this to me??? The story may be on ABC 7 news on Thursday or Friday.
I went to pick up Kona Kevin at the airport around 1130. After dropping his stuff off at the condo, we went for a short easy swim at the snorkeling beach and then an easy 30 minute run up Alii Drive. He slowed down for me - thanks Kev. We are excited to have his parents come in on Wednesday and wife and kids on Thursday.
The Parade of Nations took place at 5pm. This is when the athletes walk from the pier down Alii Drive to the Ironman Village. We got some intel from a guy named Steve that if we waited where we were at, we could watch the whole parade and then join the United States delegation to walk up Alii Drive. He said if we went to the back of the parade at the start (the countries are in alphabetical order) we would miss the whole thing. Best intel all week.
During the parade I saw Paula Newbey-Fraser, Natascha Badmann (leading the Swiss delegation) and for a short time walked alongside Sister Madonna Buder. Very cool.
I also briefly met the first guy to do Ironman as a double leg amputee. I am trying to find out his name, but I bet you will see him on NBC. What an incredibly nice guy.
I have never been in a parade and I enjoyed every single minute. I even gave the "parade wave" a couple times just to say I had done it. I actually caught up with two guys who had Placid finisher shirts from this year and got their picture, as I was wearing my Placid volunteer shirt from bike taking.
When we got to the expo it was so crowded, but we made it through. I got Michille Jones autograph and picture of her new bike - it is blue and pink - very girly, very cool and yet I suspect very fast.
Another great day in paradise! I coudn't wait to hear from Lindsey today to tell her she's coming to Kona. Tune in for that story on Wednesday' post.
Also on Wednesday's post look for pictures of Chris McCormack (Macca himself). I was RIGHT there.
At 730, I had breakfast with Mark Allen. Yes, THE Mark Allen. There were a bunch of us and it was really great. He is so incredibly down to earth. I am finding that most if not all pro triathletes, current and past are so easy going.
He said he doesn't race anymore but runs, works out with weights and surfs. He said he hasn't been in a pool in two years. The Grip himself. Wow.
At 930 I had an interview with the Ironman Public Relations people. They wanted to know about my past heart condition as well as about Lindsey coming to see me in Kona. Of course - I cried - again. Damn it! Why do they keep doing this to me??? The story may be on ABC 7 news on Thursday or Friday.
I went to pick up Kona Kevin at the airport around 1130. After dropping his stuff off at the condo, we went for a short easy swim at the snorkeling beach and then an easy 30 minute run up Alii Drive. He slowed down for me - thanks Kev. We are excited to have his parents come in on Wednesday and wife and kids on Thursday.
The Parade of Nations took place at 5pm. This is when the athletes walk from the pier down Alii Drive to the Ironman Village. We got some intel from a guy named Steve that if we waited where we were at, we could watch the whole parade and then join the United States delegation to walk up Alii Drive. He said if we went to the back of the parade at the start (the countries are in alphabetical order) we would miss the whole thing. Best intel all week.
During the parade I saw Paula Newbey-Fraser, Natascha Badmann (leading the Swiss delegation) and for a short time walked alongside Sister Madonna Buder. Very cool.
I also briefly met the first guy to do Ironman as a double leg amputee. I am trying to find out his name, but I bet you will see him on NBC. What an incredibly nice guy.
I have never been in a parade and I enjoyed every single minute. I even gave the "parade wave" a couple times just to say I had done it. I actually caught up with two guys who had Placid finisher shirts from this year and got their picture, as I was wearing my Placid volunteer shirt from bike taking.
When we got to the expo it was so crowded, but we made it through. I got Michille Jones autograph and picture of her new bike - it is blue and pink - very girly, very cool and yet I suspect very fast.
Another great day in paradise! I coudn't wait to hear from Lindsey today to tell her she's coming to Kona. Tune in for that story on Wednesday' post.
Also on Wednesday's post look for pictures of Chris McCormack (Macca himself). I was RIGHT there.
Arrived in Kona and I am feeling....
Amazingly calm. After six months riding the roller coaster of emotion between uncontrollable excitment and sheer terror, I am in Kona and I am calm - still excited, but calm.
For now anyway.
Saturday, Sunday and Monday
I arrived on Saturday, but I nearly missed my flight. I woke up at 730am and my flight left Dulles at 835am (I live in Fairfax). You should have seen me - I got out of the house in five minutes, and after topping out at about 90mph along Hwy 28 and sprinting through the airport with my baggage cart and then to the gate, I made the flight with 10 minutes to spare. I got my speed workout in for sure. That is the first time I have ever come close to missing a flight.
On Sunday, I went down to the swim start at 7am. They have buoys set up out to the 1.2 mile turn around. My goal was to do the entire 2.4 miles easily and slowly. It was absolutely beautiful - I saw bright yellow and blue fish, it was like I was snorkeling and I wanted to just float around and look, which I did sometimes. But then I had to keep reminding myself to "just keep swimming".
I swam the entire 2.4 miles. It was important for me that I did that - not because I don't think I can do the distance, but I wanted to get a feel for what the conditions would be like at that time of the morning. There was some small chop, which I don't mind and the current wasn't too bad. I felt great after and not fatigued.
After the swim, I went to pick up my bike and went for a ride out on the Queen K Highway. Holy crap! I am riding on the Queen K Highway! I was laughing and on a couple descents even let out a woooooohooooo!!! What a geek, but I had a blast. I went out to just past the airport and the hills were just rollers. As they say, the major factor on this bike course are the winds and coming back into town I felt them, but these were not the infamous cross winds you get out near Hawi. However, they are projecting to everyone's consternation, pretty brutal wind conditions this year. But I am not letting this get to me too much and am still calm.
Viewing note for Saturday - the bike turn around at Hawi is at around the 60 mile mark not 56. It is also right after the longest and steepest climb of the entire ride, so my time will be slower on the first half then the second because I get to go back down that long, steep climb on the way back :)
On Sunday afternoon, I made my pilgrimage to visit Pele, the God of Fire at the volcano. I made an offering, as Kai suggested I do. It was a very spiritual moment.
I started to see some pros Monday - Normann Stadtler, Joanna Zeiger, Hillary Biscay. I went to the infamous Lava Java cafe. This is THE PLACE where anyone and everyone goes to see and be seen. I was sitting there talking to Mia and her mom, who offered that I sit with them at their table, as this place was so crowded. Mia is a very good friend of Jon Blais and was on the 2006 highlight show doing the roll across the finish line.
Anyway, we are chatting away and then Normann himself walks up to the table next to us, wipes it down and then him and his girlfriend sit down. I play it cool and keep talking to Mia and her mom.
Monday was a very easy going day. I went for a very casual swim at the snorkeling beach up the road and saw a giant sea turtle. He was beautiful and didn't seem to care that I was right there watching him.
I have been alone in the condo, which has been great. I have been able to relax, read, sleep, eat all in peace and quiet. This is a very good thing as it is going to start getting crazy on Tuesday, so I am taking advantage of this alone time. Hawaii is absolutely beautiful. I still can't believe I am here!
Kona Kevin arrives on Tuesday!
More posts to follow....
For now anyway.
Saturday, Sunday and Monday
I arrived on Saturday, but I nearly missed my flight. I woke up at 730am and my flight left Dulles at 835am (I live in Fairfax). You should have seen me - I got out of the house in five minutes, and after topping out at about 90mph along Hwy 28 and sprinting through the airport with my baggage cart and then to the gate, I made the flight with 10 minutes to spare. I got my speed workout in for sure. That is the first time I have ever come close to missing a flight.
On Sunday, I went down to the swim start at 7am. They have buoys set up out to the 1.2 mile turn around. My goal was to do the entire 2.4 miles easily and slowly. It was absolutely beautiful - I saw bright yellow and blue fish, it was like I was snorkeling and I wanted to just float around and look, which I did sometimes. But then I had to keep reminding myself to "just keep swimming".
I swam the entire 2.4 miles. It was important for me that I did that - not because I don't think I can do the distance, but I wanted to get a feel for what the conditions would be like at that time of the morning. There was some small chop, which I don't mind and the current wasn't too bad. I felt great after and not fatigued.
After the swim, I went to pick up my bike and went for a ride out on the Queen K Highway. Holy crap! I am riding on the Queen K Highway! I was laughing and on a couple descents even let out a woooooohooooo!!! What a geek, but I had a blast. I went out to just past the airport and the hills were just rollers. As they say, the major factor on this bike course are the winds and coming back into town I felt them, but these were not the infamous cross winds you get out near Hawi. However, they are projecting to everyone's consternation, pretty brutal wind conditions this year. But I am not letting this get to me too much and am still calm.
Viewing note for Saturday - the bike turn around at Hawi is at around the 60 mile mark not 56. It is also right after the longest and steepest climb of the entire ride, so my time will be slower on the first half then the second because I get to go back down that long, steep climb on the way back :)
On Sunday afternoon, I made my pilgrimage to visit Pele, the God of Fire at the volcano. I made an offering, as Kai suggested I do. It was a very spiritual moment.
I started to see some pros Monday - Normann Stadtler, Joanna Zeiger, Hillary Biscay. I went to the infamous Lava Java cafe. This is THE PLACE where anyone and everyone goes to see and be seen. I was sitting there talking to Mia and her mom, who offered that I sit with them at their table, as this place was so crowded. Mia is a very good friend of Jon Blais and was on the 2006 highlight show doing the roll across the finish line.
Anyway, we are chatting away and then Normann himself walks up to the table next to us, wipes it down and then him and his girlfriend sit down. I play it cool and keep talking to Mia and her mom.
Monday was a very easy going day. I went for a very casual swim at the snorkeling beach up the road and saw a giant sea turtle. He was beautiful and didn't seem to care that I was right there watching him.
I have been alone in the condo, which has been great. I have been able to relax, read, sleep, eat all in peace and quiet. This is a very good thing as it is going to start getting crazy on Tuesday, so I am taking advantage of this alone time. Hawaii is absolutely beautiful. I still can't believe I am here!
Kona Kevin arrives on Tuesday!
More posts to follow....
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