In one week I will be spending my days splashing through Kailua Bay, running down Ali’i Drive, riding on the Queen K, and sipping oh-so-delicious Kona Coffee. It will all be in anticipation of the big day, and while I cannot wait for Saturday October 8th, I also realize life will go on after Ironman Hawaii. That’s why I think it’s important to have some fun post-Kona plans lined up, just to keep things in perspective.
I plan to kick-off my time back on the mainland with a 5k run! Hahah, I’m not kidding. I’m actually planning to run (or maybe hobble) through the HK5K on Saturday October 15th. The race is in memory of Hilton Kort, a Dynamo teammate, world class doctor, and all-around good guy. Hilton passed away from bladder cancer earlier this year and there is no way I am going to pass up an opportunity to run in his memory – no matter how sore, or sun-burnt, or jet-lagged I am! And Hilton deserves a MASSIVE turnout, so SIGN UP! Race, run, volunteer, donate or cheer – let’s make this happen, people!
I’m also planning to head back to the mountains before it gets too cold and do some absolutely ridiculous riding. Brasstown Bald is the highest point in Georgia and there’s actually a paved road right up to the summit! But the climb is really steep, like 24% grade in places, and even Lance Armstrong said it was tough! During normal training, riding up Brasstown would be absolutely stupid. And during the fall it’s still stupid, but it’s ok to do stupid things during the fall. So who’s in?!
And even though my racing season will be over after Hawaii, it doesn’t mean I’m finished with the tri-geek scene. Hopefully I can maintain enough fitness to cheer like a crazy person for Kathryn, Linda, and IronMike at Ironman Florida. You may laugh, but I take my Ironman cheering very seriously! No bonking allowed!
Finally, I actually have a super-special Thanksgiving vacation planned! Remember my friend Mary? Well, when she and her husband Charlie moved to Japan two years ago I promised I would come visit. It’s taken me a while to make good on that promise, but when Mary told me she was pregnant and I would have a chance to race the “world’s fastest fetus” in the pool, I bought the first plane ticket I could find! I hope they serve turkey sushi in Okinawa!
All in all, I think life is looking pretty good right now. Five days until Aloha!
{ 8 comments… read them below or add one }
Haley!! So excited for you to get out to Kona! Have SO MUCH fun and I will be rooting for you from the East Coast. I have no doubt you are going to kill it. Enjoy the trip!!
Thanks so much Alyssa!!! I REALLY appreciate it! Hope you’re recovered from Vegas and are getting psyched for IMAZ!!!
Haley, thank you so much for your kind words about Hilton and your support of our race. We are delighted you will be there on October 15 for HK5K.
Regards,
Mark Allen
Race Director – HK5K
Bring me back something from Japan, please! =D
And…
Shout… Shout… Let it all out! Kona 2011.
I will bring you something worth ONE THOUSAND Japanese Yen. Get excited, sister! And I think you should come visit and run the HK5K with me!!!!
That climb looks a little weak to be honest…
Do you use strava? It would be cool to see that ride.
Never used strava but this might be the perfect occasion to try it out. Though I might regret it if I end up walking my bike to the top!
Yay!! I’m super excited about your Kona race!! You are going to kick some major butt!! This weekend is Char’s first 1/2 ironman
I’m going as a supporter/ tourist. Although I’m very excited that you are coming to Oki, I’m really bummed that you are leaving the day before a huge Okinawa Tri. 1000m swim, 30k bike, 5k run, I think Charlie is going to do the whole thing and I am going to join up with a fast relay team and take on the swim portion (won’t all those men be surprised when a hugely pregnant woman kicks their butts) 
Can’t wait for all these awesome events!!