A key component to the triathlete mentality is being able to adjust your goals on the fly. There are so many factors in any given race that can contribute to or detract from your performance, that you sometimes have to embrace what the fates throw your way, bump your perfect day dream in favor of your backup plan and move forward.
Such was the case for me this morning when I attempted the full swim course. I had all the right intentions, and I did manage to knock off some additional yards. But there came a point where the space between the buoys lengthened significantly, and strain as I might I could not see the next marker. There were only a few swimmers remaining this far out, and the idea of continuing virtually solo toward an unknown spot somewhere in the distance was more than a little unnerving. I took a break to tread water and assess my courage, and it was then I saw a dorsal fin break the surface in an unmistakable arc several yards in front of me. It was a dolphin, a member of a school that momentarily surfaced, then dove deep below the human contingent and angled back toward shore. I accepted the subtle invitation and gladly followed them, letting go of any need to finish the entire 2.4 miles and instead enjoyed the aerial view of these gorgeous graceful creatures for a few cherished moments until they outpaced me and continued out of sight.
Today has been filled with magical moments, whether swimming with dolphins or connecting with industry friends or talking with the many athletes preparing for whatever Saturday’s race brings their way. There’s just something about being in Kona that lends a special aura to every activity and every interaction. We’ve set up a station in front of the House of GU where we’re sampling GU and GU2O to the folks running and riding past, and it’s been a pleasure for all of us to get to know so many people who rely on our products to fuel their athletic achievements. If you’re on the island and you haven’t yet stopped by, we’re at the 4.5 mile marker and we’d love to meet you!