Let’s show aloha to Ironman athletes
Living Kona side of our lovely island has its ups and downs — ranging from vog to drought-like conditions from time to time. One of the “conditions” is a draw for athletic competition throughout the year.
Ironman happens to be one of those that is the largest and most invasive to those of us who live here. My wife and I live two miles from the pier and enjoy the event and are volunteers most every year.
That said, the event brings in a lot of people and bucks to our island community along with a few inconveniences, one of which is the added traffic on Alii Drive and other roads. I walk 2/5 miles on Alii every day, by choice. I actually enjoy the traffic, the ocean breeze and view and the fact that it is mostly flat.
Ironman lasts about a week, it isn’t that hard to adapt to the extra bikers, walkers and joggers if you make a bit of effort. Driving down Alii Drive yelling at the athletes doesn’t help you get to your destination any faster and you embarrass yourself and our community. I would suggest that if you are driving, you leave earlier so you don’t have to get upset with any delays.
Taking out your anger on the athletes is something that they take back home with them. Regardless of the fun and accomplishments they have had, that is something that will stick in their memory.
Frank Dickinson
Kailua-Kona