Kona Finish Line

The people's stories are numerous and varied. Because of the Big Island's magic, these stories seem to hover in the dense air on race morning, waiting for the next chapter to be written. The athletes are bonded by the common thread of wanting to finish but knowing they must overcome obstacles in their way.

For the pros, it may be to finish first and be crowned world champion. For the amateurs, it may be to make the podium in their age group. For most though, the story started with just making it to Kona and it's not about where they finish. The story is finishing.



Like the guy that had been trying for 16 years to qualify for Kona. He finished. Like Dave Orlowsky (above). One of the original 12 finishers in 1978. He finished another one. Weeks after signing a pro motocross contract at 16 years old, Ricky James was paralyzed in an accident. Now at the age of 20 he has returned to competitive motocross racing and decided to even give the Ironman a try. He finished.

The stories go on and on. People competing because they were told they wouldn't live long enough. Seventy year olds competing because it keeps them young. People competing in honor of lost loved ones. And so on and so on.

Whether they've finished in 9 hours or 17 hours, it doesn't matter. Crossing the finish line, at that moment, they all join a family. The family of Kona finishers. I've got to admit, it is one electrifying bundle of energy down at the finish line. It can make you cheer and shed a tear for those finishers.





The best party in the world on Ironman race day is at the finish line from 9pm until midnight. No better place to be.
I'm not aware of many of sports where the World Champion goes home to shower, eat, rest, and then comes back to cheer on the remaining finishers for 3 hours. Some of those finishers did double takes when they were given their lei's from Craig Alexander or Chrissie Wellington.




Craig Alexander, talking to the boss, helped us throw out Timex swag (t-shirts, hats, etc.)


Chrissie Wellington's enthusiasm was infectious. All smiles and excitement.


The Timex Crew


My boy Special K. He keeps the ball rolling in the right direction for Timex and deserves a lot of credit for his leadership qualities. And... he is a great friend, confidant, wing-man, jokester, and an Ironman himself (Lake Placid and Wisconsin).


The 17 hour cut-off was ended with a fire performer.

I think I have one more update to post so check back for the behind the scenes look at the awards party.

Cheers,
DJB