Settling In

It's hard to believe, but we're getting settled into the routine here in Florianopolis, Brazil. It's my first time to S. America. I've never even been as far south as Mexico before!

The travel went well. Met up with my sister and parents in Miami and made the trip south to Brazil on Saturday night. Long day/night of travel, but no mishaps, so we're thankful. All of the luggage/bike/gear made it safely to Florianopolis. Met up with Ken, Greg, Ty, and Stacey from EST at the Florianopolis airport....it was great to see a couple familiar faces. They arrived just about the same time as us, but from Rio instead. We made the ride to the hotels with the EST folks and it was nice to get caught up on how everybody was doing.

Our hotel is great. It's a block from the beach and about 1/2 mile from the start/finish/transition for the race. It's sort of like a Gulf Coast condo building....we're in adjoining 1-bedroom units....a lot of space, nice balcony views of the water. Had dinner in a small group at an Italian restaurant not too far from our hotel. Went to Brazil for Italian food!

Went on a 1-lap bike around the course (~56 mi) yesterday morning in a group of 7 people who had arrived this early. The course is mostly flat, scenic, and mostly good road surface. I suppose no course is as flat as Florida, but the road surface here is better than any of the previous races I've done. I suspect that, if there's good weather, the bike leg will be fast. There are a couple hills that are encountered 4 times on race day. Not too long, but steep enough for the guys to reach 55 mph on the downhill! Went on a short run yesterday after the bike ride. Ran to the transition area and back along a beachside promenade. Other athletes were out doing the same thing.

Had wine & cheese last night and then a group dinner at another hotel. EST has 560 people coming to the race. Amazing.

Went for an open water swim this morning with Gerd Weber, another athlete staying at our hotel. Water's probably 70 degrees, moderate chop, some swells, and about 8-10 feet of visibility. Gulped more sea water than I'd have liked!

Lounging now at the hotel with the family. Nap later. More to come as the week goes along. Can't wait 'til race day!