Big Kahuna Half-Ironman

Last Sunday was the Big Kahuna Triathlon in Santa Cruz. It was a Half-Ironman distance race - 1.2 mile swim, 56 mile bike, and a 13.1 mile run. Due to continuing knee pain, I could not race. No matter, it was a wonderful day out! The weather was awesome and three of my best friends did their very first triathlon at this distance. For Lisa and Bob it was a huge milestone toward their goal of Ironman Arizona. For Ed, it was his very first triathlon! I was so proud of their race and also very humbled by having to sit this one out. Much aloha and congrats on a fine race guys!!!

The Big Kahuna athletes - Ed, Lisa, and Bob




Lisa's transition area




The procession down to the ocean, emotions were high




Beautiful sunrise and nervous triathletes




One last photo before a 70.3 mile (6 hour) race




The start!




Yikes! Look closely at the dark triangle rising out of the water next to all those swimmers!




Just a SEAL. . .




A better shot of the whiskered menace!




On to the bike. . . Lisa showing her 'aloha' spirit!




56 miles to go. . .




On to the 13.1 mile run. I probably saw 1,000 athletes muscle up this hill - only one was smiling.




The race finished on the crowded Santa Cruz shore.




The glorious finish line!




Lisa loving life!




Newly anointed 70.3 triathletes!!!