Official Kona Week festivities begin with a kids duathlon and triathlon, followed by a Parade of Nations that ends at the Expo at sunset.

All photographs © Timothy Carlson

Before her scheduled final race in Kona, 6-time Ironman World Champion Natascha Badmann poses for a photo with one of her adoring fans.

The swim start for the older kids triathlon.

Thrashing in the swim.

"Bokos USA" kid runs to the beach.

Panorama of the kids swim in Kailua Bay.

Trio of runners sprinting to the finish.

Proud family.

Ironman CEO Andrew Messick tosses treats to the fans.

Ultraman veteran Wendy Minor leads her delegation.

High five for a young fan

Chinese delegation carries their flag.

Proud Brits display the Union Jack.

Local in traditional Hawaiian costume posed for photos with enthusiastic marchers.

Miss Hawaii Islands.

Two-time Olympian Manny Huerta with Puerto Rican contingent.

A brightly colored clown on a rad bike represents the Aloha spirit.