Kona One

Aloha. First full day in Kona. The Alaska direct flight from Seattle into the Big Island is fabulous. Got in at noon where I was met by Simon and Chuck. We immediately went to the Expo to start the set up, then headed out for a quick lunch and trip to the condo to unpack. Seems a little slow this year with perhaps the economy keeping many folks at home. Still, the electricity is in the air as we prep for a big expo week and Saturday's main event. Chuck had a lot of good sales news and with my two proposals to extend the RCV opportunity, this could (should) be a big week for us.

We had a great dinner last night at the close of the Expo with Scott Davis, manager for RaceSox (whose handiwork you will be seeing LOTS more of from todays sessions) and Ryan Bowd, IMG publicist and manager for Bella and Steve Bayliss. Oh yeah, Ryan and I have a friendly little wager stipulating that all three of his clients, Steve, Bella and 20 year old phenom Phillip Graves will all finish in the top ten overall. I hated to bet against them but this course is not "just" an Ironman, it is THE Ironman and takes some time to understand, let alone conquer. Bella was seventh last year and Steve was 16th, so they have the horsepower. It'll be Phillip's virgin effort and Madame Pele has a fondness for, shall we say, fresh young blood.

Lot's of details left to manage, but the coffee is beginning to brew on the lanai on a beautiful October morning in Kona. More, much more, later in the day from the Expo. Aloha.

Pix: Two year reigning Women's Champion Chrisse Wellington (UK) carrying her winners bouquet. Simon chats with Jill from the UK as Chuck scans the OZ video and the buzz power of Alii Dr extends even past Lava Java (Simon gawks at the latest from Scott bikes)