From noon to 5pm athletes from all over the world checked in their bikes for the 2016 IRONMAN World Championships in Kona and we were there.

Ben Hoffman was surrounded by photographers and fans as he checked in. That is pretty much standard fare for the pro athletes unless they can sneak in.

German pro Andreas Böcherer has been able to fly under the radar here but make no mistake, this man is dangerous.

Another German to watch out for is Patrick Lange who won the 2016 IRONMAN North American Championships in Texas.

Brit age grouper Alison Rowatt knows how to suffer and put it all out on the line.

American Heather Jackson looked very relaxed and calm when she checked in.

Aussie Luke McKenzie will be shining in bright orange tomorrow.

German Andreas Raelert has been close before and would love to be even closer.

Brit Tim Don is always ready for shenanigans but is full business when it matters.

What can we say here?

Trevor and Heather Wurtele are among 8 pro athletes racing on a Cervelo P5X tomorrow. Word also has it that one age grouper will start on one.

Team Every Man Jack came in in full force and they have 19 athletes at the start.

It will be the first big dance in Kona for German Daniela Sämmler.

Moto GP racer Ben Bostrom qualified for Kona and he has Dave Mirra on his bike and the name Dave Mirra on his bib number.

German Julia Gajer is in great form and ready to pounce tomorrow.

Melissa Hauschildt checked in relatively early.

We all admire Hector Picard.

Brit Joe Skipper is hoping to catch the front bunch tomorrow with a few other pros who might not come out of the water in a timely fashion.

Kevin Collington tried to smile for the Banjo Ass photographer.

After checking in his bike Sebastian Kienle obliged for some pics.

All images © Herbert Krabel / slowtwitch.com