There's a common saying among those who call the Big Island of Hawaii home: "Lucky we live Hawaii." The spectacular sunsets, the stark lava fields, the warm, crystal blue water, the generous Aloha of the Hawaiian culture – these are just a few of the wonders of the Big Island. And they're just a few of the memories each athlete will take home from the May 30, 2009, Ironman 70.3 Hawaii.
In its sixth year of celebration, Ironman 70.3 Hawaii welcomes back athletes and volunteers who have become a part of our ohana, our family. And we look forward to providing newcomers with the race experience of a lifetime.
Ironman 70.3 Hawaii presents challenges for even the toughest and most talented athletes, but the challenge takes place in an environment of exquisite natural beauty, luxurious accommodations, impeccable organization and tropical festivity. Ironman 70.3 Hawaii invites you to race hard and rest easy.Swim: The swim begins in Hapuna Beach State Park, routinely recognized as one of the most spectacular beaches in the world. The fine white sand, the swaying coconut trees, the black lava outcroppings all beckon to come and enjoy the beauty of the bay.
But beware. The sea has her moods. The bay can lay calm and inviting one day, and host wind chop and currents the next. Go with the flow and be prepared to race in whatever conditions this gorgeous bay hands you. This is the Kohala Coast of the Big Island, where natural elements rule and humans only visit.
Bike: Racers who propel themselves through the sparkling bay have the road to Hawi to look forward to, as the bike course routes athletes along the most storied miles of the Ford Ironman World Championship course. Take in breathtaking views of the island's volcanic mountains, lava flows thousands of years old, and the ever-present azure ocean, and do it all through the steamy glaze of the Hawaiian sun. Ride as fast as you can on the undulating course because one never knows when those fabled crosswinds might come screaming down the dry hillsides, heading straight through your bike.
Finish your ride at a new T2 on the grounds of the elegant The Fairmont Orchid, Hawaii, the race's host hotel. The Orchid is known for its ability to pamper – the extraordinary bedding, the fine restaurants, the oceanside cabanas, the Spa Without Walls.
Run: Clear your mind of these opulent amenities, though, because you've still got a half-marathon to run. Set out through manicured grounds, along coastal pathways, over award-winning golf fairways, past petroglyph fields and tidal basins, and enjoy the Aloha of the aid stations. No matter how hot and humid it is, keep moving toward the finish line at The Orchid's Honu ("turtle") Point. This is Hawaii, after all, and the party at the finish is just waiting for you to arrive.
Written by Dawn Henry, dawn@dawnhenry.net