2016 Ironman Word Championships Race Report Part II of III: Kupa'a
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KUPA'A
Kupa'a: the Hawaiian word meaning Steadfast, Firm or Loyal. It’s my take on gratitude for those who travelled to Kona to experience it with us! Our journey to the Ironman World Championships was made immeasurably more meaningful because of them.
The adventure started about five minutes after the Kona Qualification slot awards ceremony in Texas. My brother Kyle called to let me know he’d been holding his oceanfront condo at mile 2.75 on Ali’i drive open. I’d have a place to stay for the event. Say WHA?!?!?!? As if I needed an excuse to cry that day…
Oceanfront on one side and a front seat for the run course on the other!
http://www.banyanbreakers.com/
Soon enough, we learned that Kyle, his girlfriend Kari and my parents, Terry and Bill, would be joining us too. The whole fam-damily was goin’ to Kona! We’d put a Griswold family vacation movie to shame for sure. Keep in mind these folks have never spectated an Ironman, much less in the blistering heat and humidity of the Big Island. I was nine-parts SUPER excited and one-part worried. These fans would need proper training to ensure a successful (ER visit-free) day.
After a full day of travel in what could quite be the most circuitous route from Sequim to Kona, my parents made it the Wednesday before the race. Let the shenanigans begin!
The condo doesn’t have air conditioning and let’s just say coming from Sequim, staying safe in the heat was my top concern. A quick trip to Costco and we had their room down to a comfy 72 degrees in no time.
My dad almost literally cried and thanked us. Priceless.
Everyone got a little action prior to race day including snorkeling, fishing and a fantastic home-cooked meal with fish direct from sea-to-table!
Kyle and Kari took mom snorkeling. Well technically Kyle drug her around while she spectated. It was good rehab for her new shoulder!
Catching fish makes for happy guys!
Kari turned some of the fish caught that day into a gourmet meal before sundown. YUMMY!
Heidi is my adult equivalent of a blankie. Calming but with a whole lotta sass and some swear words. SO lucky.
Heidi’s son Joseph joined us and is QUITE the Sherpa-in-training. He hung out with my mom during bike check-in and was in charge of the transition bags. Thanks Joseph!
Joseph is a pro at this whole Ironman spectating thing - his mom is an Ironman, don't you know?!
Just a few of the fans for my “Fan”club. Not only are they adorable, they are easy to spot on race day!
