Thursday, October 8
I have just got back from one of my last rides. A picture perfect morning with blue skies, but the howling Kona winds are still there to make me realise it's not just paradise. Yesterday there were brutal winds on the island and the sun blazed all day long. It changes day by day here and so quickly, but come race day we know it will be a combo of hot, humid and windy. But to what severity is up to Mother Nature herself.
Last night we had the Parade of Nations and Team GB was represented by over 140 athletes. Free comedy T-Shirts were provided by Fusion and Blade Printing with the words "God Save The Queen K" printed on them. This is a joke for anyone who knows anything about Kona. It was amazing to walk through the streets representing our country as people cheered for us. The next time that will be happening I will be in a little more pain, but hopefully moving a lot quicker as it is where the run course starts and finishes.
One of my favourite times here in Kona are the early morning swims. It's a great way to start the day and during race week there is the coffee boat about 500m from shore which you can swim up to, grab a free coffee after or during your swim set, have a chat with the other athletes and then carry on.
Another great thing about race week is a lot of the brands have events. 'Specialized' invited us to their house for a BBQ and to mix with some legendary past winners, like Crowie and Macca and future champions such as Tim Don. It was hosted at an epic little house by the sea and there was free food, so I'm never going to say no!
Another magical thing about this special Big Island are the sunsets. Every night we are treated to such spectacular images as the ball of fire drops behind the Pacific Ocean.
I have checked in and got my race number, which is 1980 for anyone who will be tracking me. On race day that's the number you need to look out for.
