Over a period of 18 years Kona has been my third home I guess! I have experienced some unbelievable moments, my favorite being the win in 94’ but I thought I’d share some with you. After all , the support crew does need some time for relaxation and vacationing too you know!

There are way too many things to list in favorite or chronological order, but Kona is a fascinating place to say the least. A holiday destination for world travelers ( goodness knows what those cruise goers with the black socks pulled up to their knees think of us body shaven, ripped units parading around in our underwear think) and being one of the most active Volcanic Islands on earth. This place packs a punch like no other in the world of Triathlon. Its always a good debate or even an argument but this sleepy little Gem of the Pacific is loaded for the traveler. I will try to give you an idea of fun, the way I see it is that the support team needs something to do too right? Right! Its not all about the Bike Lance! Oops, its not all about the swim bike run right! There we go, my own words, truly spoken from a three disciplined maniac.

• The Volcanoes: OK, this one is for after the race, a lengthy day dominated by slow driving but sights from vistas that will blow you away, quite literally, if Madam Pele decides to blow. If you are not doing the race then this day can take in some hiking and some of the lushest tropical landscape can also be found there.

• Akaka Falls and Hilo. Hilo is the forgotten side of the Island for the triathletes, Kona takes canter stage but lets not forget Hilo, a beautiful township with an unforgettable harbor and park. Just outside of Hilo is Akaka Falls Park. A magnificent set of waterfalls can be felt from far away as the mist flies onto your already drenched sweaty body, but this mist is met with much enjoyment as it cools the hot body. Truly a must see!

• Still moving counter clockwise, Waimea sits high above most townships of the Big Island, and has the coolest climate and decent rainfall, where Kona has very little. Waimea is also the gateway to Waipio Valley, and some of the most dramatic valley cuttings anywhere. The view from atop shows the vast valley where you can hike or even stay a night or two or simply take a horse back ride for the day.

• The Parker Ranch. Hawaii, a Ranch? Yep, you guessed it. The big Ol Ranch. She’s a monster; this massive parcel of land is home to one of the biggest ranches in the United States. They have a restaurant and plenty to do, you can stay and check it out for yourself. Situated above Kawaiihae near Waimea.

• The Kohala coast, one of my favorite coastlines, its different but it has is unparallel. The North Kohala coast stretches form Kawaiihae to Hawi, the famed uphill section linking the out and back on Ironman’s bike course. There's not much to see on that section but back on the south Kohala side, it is simply breathtaking. The view is best captured for the Magnificent Mauna Kea Observatory, another thing to see. Down below the Queen Kaamanhu highway winds its way back to Kona but what lies in its path is some of the world’s most expensive real estate and also the resorts to die for. This stretch also has a ton of public beaches starting from Hapuna state beach, the start of the Honu Triathlon.

• Holualoa. This quaint little café , artsy town has it all, well for me it does. Take a cruise up there on your bike, early in the week as it has a decent climb, but a great cup of Joe is available and probably the most relaxing place closest to town. You can visit the famed Kona coffee farms and just hang out, a Welchy Favorite.

• Golf. FORE! Mate, the Golf is everywhere you look. The Big Island is loaded with all types of courses, a keen Golfer I am, I have taken on a few and yes, LOST. The Pacific Ocean has beaten me more often than I like. You can play for a few bucks or splurge over $300. I have played a few but my Favorite because of its views is Makalei Country club. Its on Palani Road but up about 5 miles from town, a little hard to find but worth the drive. The views are impeccable as you can see from the airport to Kawaihae and beyond. The slope is quite vicious but fun. I drove the green on a 340+ hole! Yep, I cut the corner bent it around a tree and it ran on, I three putted for a par!

• Town beaches: There are a ton, the most popular being Magic Sands or white sands. A very popular beach but with a ferocious shore dump. If you are thinking about going, pack the sunscreen and do not challenge the wave, it will land you on your head and you know what that can do. The King Kam beach is also a great family beach. My little ones love it. Pretty views and no waves create a haven for your little ones. Also the convenience of shops and restaurants are close by. The other beach worth visiting is the Popular Beach at Keahou. This snorkeling beach is fantastic for all the family, a life guarded beach with surfing and the St Peters church overhangs the ocean.

• Fishing! The best! This is where they hold the Annual Billfishing tournament every year a month before the Ironman. The amount of fish caught not quite adds to the amount of beer drunk. Glad they get that out of the way before us. The fishing can be done anywhere, all you need is a rod and some bait and you’re away. If you want to splurge then a luxurious cruiser awaits you.  I have been on plenty of these fishing trips and each one has provided many memories and large catches.

• Shopping. Ah yes, my wife’s favorite. Annually I drop by Big Island Jewellers to look at or purchase, OK OK, purchase a piece for the MRS. They have plenty of Ironman jewelry and mementos and right across the alley is Unison the best t-shirt place around, I believe. Kona is a magical place so take your time to browse because there's plenty for everyone but remember, DON’T take any Lava from the Island.  You can purchase it but I recommend not! The wood from the Island is KOA. I have several picture frames in this beautiful looking wood.

Still on shopping, only because the family has put in their lists. If you’re going to do any Ironman merchadise shopping, DO NOT DELAY, ACT NOW! The stuff just flies off the shelves so be quick. Also, visit the expo after 5pm Tuesday night. They have plenty of vendors there and the latest and greatest not only in fashion but the state of the art swim bike and run technology is there too!

That’s it. If I give you any more to do, then you’ll forget about the race and that would be a sore sight! Have fun in Kona and remember, we visit the Island, so please show your gratitude. Mahalo