After days in Oahu and Maui, we finally reached The Big Island of Hawaii. This island is the home of many different climates and changing landscapes and is our favorite Hawaiian island. We stayed near the race course on the hot, arid northwest side of the island in Waikoloa. We drove just an hour more north to lookout over the Pololu Valley and the weather changed dramatically with rainy conditions at the higher elevation.
Our race course is part of the Ironman bicycle course. Surrounded by volcanic rocks on each side of the road, I raced on Route 19 just outside the Kailua-Kona airport. I had a lot of difficulty in this race breathing the dry air. I know I breathe like a locomotive train when racing the mile anyway, but this was different. You can hear me wheezing on the video throughout the race. I gutted out a 4:44 mile and successfully completed the 2012 Isles Mile Challenge finishing 7 island one-mile races, in 7 different time zones, in 7 weeks – all under 5 minutes. Thanks to our Big Island driver, “T,” keeping me protected throughout the race.
This was an amazing and intense tour. Next weekend back on the mainland, I will summarize the items we experimented with in 2012, the things we learned on our travels, and where we go from here. I turn the big 50 next April. Many people have been writing in letting me know what they think I should do for a 50th feat. Please feel free to let me know your ideas and thank you all for your continued support and prayers, it is much appreciated.
David,
Another amazing journey and accomplishment. You’re running a 4:44 at almost age 50…that is a big deal enough!!! Look forward to reading your future plans and hopefully seeing you on and off court in Sarasota. Very inspiring. As you say… “accelerate at any age.”
Cheers, Eric
Congratulations on successfully completing the Isles Mile Challenge!
You never cease to amaze!!! Dave congratulations: you are a true inspiration and whatever you come up with next year will undoubtedly be incredible!
You never cease to amaze!!! Dave congratulations: you are a true inspiration and whatever you come up with next year will undoubtedly be incredible!
Congratulations Dave! What an amazing achievement but nothing you achieve will ever surprise me because you are simply amazing. I hope you guys had a great time as you traveled around to achieve your goal. Hi to Sekyen! Rashawn and I made it to the summit of the Grand Teton (13,773 feet). It is a two day ike, climb, rappel etc and was the most physically and mentally challenging thing I have ever done. So glad we made it. Kevin Maisch and his son Tim made it to 11,600 feet but missed the summit because Tim developed altitude sickness. We really felt bad for them. The views from the summit were awesome!
Stay in touch and let me know when you are getting back on the court in Sarasota!
Congratulations Dave!!! I will c u when u get back to Sarasota.