Another Hawaii Report!

Today was my last big day before the Ironman and I decided I wanted to explore the Hawaii Belt more to the south.  I had previously gone out 16 miles and so I wanted to go out 25 miles today and come back for lunch.  This time I was mentally prepared for the 1600 feet of climbing I had to do to get up to the high point.  So, after breakfast I climbed up and up and up, once again experiencing the wonderful humidity.  After the high point it rolled gradually back down to the 900s before climbing back up to 1300 for the turnaround point.  This part of the island has more trees and other vegetation.  Nicer surroundings to look at than riding north through the lava fields.  I saw a sign for 180 acres for sale.  A mere $1.83 million and it can be yours.  It was a pretty uneventful ride compared to the day before.

After lunch at the hotel, I did a nice easy ride up to Kona and back.  They were still working on setting up for the triathlon.  They had blocked off further south now of the finish line.  My buddy tells me they actually start in the water and have to tread water for maybe 10 minutes before they get to go.  I thought that was really interesting.  So, today I finished with 64 miles and 4700 feet of climbing.  I believe that brings me up to 390 for the week.  Tomorrow I plan on getting up at 5:00 am and heading up to my buddy's place at 5:30 am to store my bike and then walk the remaining 1.5 miles to the start.  The Pros start at 6:30 am and the age classes start at 7:00 am.  Should be fun!