tlkiwi--Thanks for clearing that up about IM/ITU. I just sat here saying, "uh...huh?" It makes sense that they specialize in different distances and venues.

About Kona--the show I watched was an after-the-fact production. You can buy DVDs at (www.ironmandvd.com) It was phenomenal to watch, but without commercials, I'll bet it was only 45 min long. Not sure that's worth $35 of DVD! Maybe I'll suggest to my LBS that they buy a couple of DVDs and rent them out. I would certainly rent one of years past for, say, $4.

CC, that's so cool that you get to volunteer at IM WA! The excitement and comaraderie of races is like nothing I've ever experienced before. The fact that I discovered it at age 42 makes it all the better.

Denise/running mommy, good luck with the back. I know mine can act up with the slightest of wrong positions. Stretching my piriformis regularly seems to help. I am a midwife, and I realized that some of the positions I put my body in while delivering babies was making it worse. I actually saw an occupational therapist, who gave me some good suggestions. I'm excited for you as you get ready for the IM!

Best wishes to all-- Lise