The Ironman village had a demo booth where athletes can test run shoes, ride bikes etc. I worked at the Avia booth and was amazed at the size and energy of this whole Kona/Ironman thing. The Avi Lite II seems to be the most popular for IM racing- its light with plenty of cushioning. I was also surprised at the might of the Triathlon Dollar, despite the world wide economic slump. Just proves again- Triathletes are overachievers, and Ironpeople more than most. Tomorrow is the big day- let the suffering begin!

Signing autographs at the Avia demo booth with triathlon legend Scott Tinley. Or, more like “watching Tinley sign his books.” I have been a Scott Tinley fan since (especially) my beginnings in triathlon in the late 80s, and I was stoked with my autographed ST books. The one says: “To the Conradenator”

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Avia is my new shoe sponsor. Eish! What great shoes.

Avia AVI Bolt racing flat

Since Temecula (yesterdays XTERRA race venue) is so close to the Avia headquarters north of San Diego, a photo shoot was scheduled. I hobbled around on sore legs and blistered feet, but they say we got some good shots for Avias upcoming ad campaign. I’m blown away by the company and its people’s great attitude. The rest of the day was spent eating (no, DINING) and Amber and I got to know the folks better. (Yes, that is a goofy pose- for focusing purposes only)

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Tom Keily (XTERRA CEO), myself, Scott Tinley (Tri Legend and one of my childhood heros). Photo by Rich Cruse

I honoured to receive this special award here in San Diego. The 40hr flight was fully worth it. The Competitor Awards are amazing, and the other award winners were truly inspiring. Saul Raisin, Scott Rigsby, Ryan Hall, Chris McCormack, Heather Fuhr – some amazing stories: EnduranceSportsAwards.com.

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