It took 33 years before The World Triathlon Corporation finally bestowed a full sized Ironman to Texas. The Woodlands, about 30 miles north of Houston, offered a Texas-sized qualifying points and a $100,00 pro purse which attracted a stellar field..

Photographs © Timothy Carlson

Race favorite Chris Lieto and his son Kaiden.

A large and enthusiastic contingent of Mexican triathletes are ready.

The new Recovery Pump exhibit at the race expo attracted some satisfied shoppers.

Desiree Ficker hopes she will be a home state athlete to take the first Texas Ironman crown.

Timothy O'Donnell and coach Cliff English have high hopes for the 2009 ITU long course World Champion's first Ironman.

Eneko Llanos likes the big qualifying points available.

Kelly Williamson - another Texas contender with high hopes.

Kelly Williamson's race day snack bar.

Luke Bell and dear friend arrive.

Catriona Morrison is the one at the pro press conference hydrating in the noontime Texas heat.

Montana's Linsey Corbin

Texas cow strolls the expo.

Joanna Lawn and husband Armando arrive in style.

Joszef Major

Michael Lovato came to race

Amanda Lovato came to watch

Hillary Biscay came to commentate

Canadians Lisa Bentley and Heather Fuhr have at least 25 Ironman titles to their credit. They came to work for the WTC.

Typical canal in The Woodlands.

20. The swim ends here. No Swimming the day before the race..