Jen and I drove into town with expectations of chilling at Lava Java. We ordered two coffee's and hung out for 15 or 20 minutes. This is by far the coolest place to hang out, and is Triathlete central during race week, not to mention the dark roast Kona coffee just plain rocks!

We decided to walk a little bit into town because mass crowds were starting to gather for the Ironman parade. Jen and I walked towards the Ironman village, watched some of the parade, and then ventured off into the Ironman Vendor area. This is where I met the six time Ironman Hall of Famer Mark Allen. Mark revolutionized the sport of Ironman along with professional Dave Scott during the late 80's and early 90's. Here's a picture of Mark and I.

Mark provided me with some good insight for the race, and suggested that I bike the last 20 miles up to the Hawi turn around on the bike before the race on Saturday so I get an idea of the legendary Kona head winds. I think I'll do this on Thursday. After talking to Mark Jen and I headed back into one of the Ironman Village clothing expo's where Jen bought a really cool 2XU Triathlon suit for next season racing. She wouldn't model it for me, so sorry folks, no pic :(

As it just so happens, Michellie Jones (2006 Champion) was there and signing autographs, so I just had to say hello again and get a poster of her on her Felt DA, by the way her custom paint job will definitely win this year's most stylish award.