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Coeur's Kona Race Report Part II

Kristin Schwieger & Hailey Manning

This was my second time to the Big Island for World Championships, so I was more calm and relaxed then I can remember. When my alarm went off at 4:30, I ate breakfast and headed to the pier. After getting body marked and my bike set and ready to go, I just sat in a quiet spot on the pier waiting for the word to hit the water. 

Kristin Schewiger after her race

One Coeur-ageous Athlete

We looked over to our left and happened to see one of the Challenged Athlete Foundation ("CAF") competitors in her race chair.  She was a petite woman and was at a dead stop about halfway up a hill.  For the most part no one was watching and it was apparent that her arms were about to give out.  Before I go on to tell the rest of this, I have to just say that I have re-written this next section twice and I just can't find the words to convey how incredible, inspiring, emotional and moving we found this to be.  

Minda in Kona

Talking Kona with Kristin Schwieger

Meet Kristin Schwieger!
Kristin at finish line of a race
Coeur: How many times have you raced in Kona?
Kristin: This will be my second time in Kona and hopefully there will be more to come! Coeur: What age group will you be racing in?
Kristin: Well, I will be turning the big 4-0 at midnight of the race, so 40-44. 

Woohoo! HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Coeur: What's your bib number?
Kristin: 1384 Coeur: What's your favorite thing about this course or if this is your first time what part of this course suits your strengths?
Kristin: When I did the race in 2011, there were parts of the bike course that I loved and parts that I hated. Typically the bike meets my strengths, so I really want to have a strong bike this year.

Talking Kona with Hailey Manning

Hailey this morning at Dig Me Beach, after a shake out swim in Kona. Coeur: How many times have you raced in Kona? Hailey: This will be number 4 and...