D-2: Military Meet & Greet / RnR / Welcome Dinner

2017 Ironman World Championship - Military Division Participants

So today was my usual D-2 "rest" day. In the past, I have typically swum every day I am in Kona; however, the normal approach I take for racing is D-2 is a rest day. So rather than stick to the typical Kona pattern, I reverted to my preferred pattern of D-2 as a rest day. Taking today as a rest day meant another hour of sleep or so this morning.

Andrew Messick took time out of his busy schedule to speak to the military athletes.

Alex, John, and I representing Canada!

Once Alex and John were back from their morning swim, we all headed into town to the Military Meet & Greet hosted by Ironman. Andrew Messick, Ironman CEO, even made an appearance this year and had some kind words. It was great meeting some of the other military athletes; unfortunately, Europe didn't seem represented...I think it had to do with Ironman not having assigned a 2017 Military Qualifier in Europe.

The orange tree where Carl and the Cameleon clan usually hang out.

The staff at Greenwell Farms are always so polite and helpful.

After the Meet and Greet, Claudia and I headed back to the house and then made our annual trip to Greenwell Farms (aka where you can buy the best Kona Coffee). Unfortunately, we couldn't find Carl the Cameleon, apparently he has been in hiding the last couple days. Greenwell Farms was quite busy today, but none the less we made our purchase and then headed back to the house.

We took it very easy this afternoon. We made another trip to the Rapid Reboot house to give their compression units another try. Who knows maybe we'll come home with one.

Athletes Welcome Dinner.

This evening was the athlete welcome dinner followed by the "mandatory" race briefing. This year's theme at the athlete welcome dinner was Aloha. It was a great evening out with Claudia and our Canadian contingent.