I think I may have (Kona) coffee issues...

This cup definitely charged me up.   What started as a 2 1/2 mile jog down to the pier to meet Mark for his swim turned into a mini fast progression run.  Dang.   The swim was great and the run back picked up where the run out left off.   Made it back to the condo, threw on cycling gear and we drove out to Waikoloa to meet young stud PA/NJ local triathlon stud, Brian Duffy, who is here competing for the first time.   He and his friend, Morgan, wanted to see and experience some of the Hawi part of the bike course.   We started about 10 miles out from the turnaround which allowed for a brief ride on relatively flat road before starting to climb toward Hawi.   The winds weren’t all that bad but they were steady, for sure.   Pretty much a side/head wind the whole way out.    The way back was that same wind and mostly at our backs and I was quickly reminded why I used to break out the 55×11 for this course.   I must admit I enjoy the compact crank I am currently riding but it would have been nice to have a 10 vs 11 tooth cog to go with it.   Even without it, speed was hovering around 45 mph for a good stretch.

Matthew and I followed up the ride with lunch at the Four Seasons with my old, long lost friend, Eben, mentioned in yesterday’s post.    All I can say is – wow.    That place is deserving of every star it likely gets in ratings and reviews.   A great lunch and it was great to catch up.   Eben, thanks again, you look as ready (more really) than you did 20 years ago and I am sure you will have a great race out there on Saturday.

Later in the afternoon, we made a stop at the Clif Bar party, and who do I see for the first time in (well) over 15 years, but Mr. Kenny Souza lounging on the front lawn couch.   Dude – you haven’t changed a bit – well, maybe a little.   For those who may not know, Kenny was the best duathlete in the world for quite some time.   I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to race against him many times – sometimes winning, sometimes getting left in his wake.    So what did we talk about?   Our kids, of course.   Kenny – I have your number now – count on me bugging you every week until you start riding your bike and running again.

Tags: Clif Bar, coffee, duathlon, Kenny Souza, Kona, Newton, Triathlon