The highlight of Friday in Kona is the bike check-in. Athletes lined up as early as 11:15 am even though it does not open officially until noon. Enjoy these images from the day.

All images © Herbert Krabel / slowtwitch.com

By noon the athletes were lined up orderly as far as the eye could see.

Amanda Stevens was one of the first Pros to drop off her bike.

2005 Ironman World Champion Faris Al-Sultan moved swiftly into the transition area.

Walking through the industry counting gauntlet.

Sarah Piampiano and her ride approaching the entrance to the transition area.

Lew Hollander is the man we all want to be when we grow up.

A very relaxed Pete Jacobs awaited friends and support crew just to the side of the action.

The Belgian Uplace team entered the check-in together.

Many eyes will be on Jordan Rapp this year.

We got Linsey Corbin to pause for us for a minute.

Richard Lockley from the Von Drais company adjusts a bike race number.

The Von Drais number holder is very nice and came to you courtesy of Shimano.

What Greg Bennett will be able to do in Kona is a bit of a mystery.

Mirinda Carfrae was mobbed when she checked-in.

We ran into Andy Potts next to the Queen K hotel.

Macca was in high spirits and looks lean and ready.

Yes, this man will do the bike segment in Crocs, and then use a different pair of them for the run.

The Quintana Roo Illicito of Kelly Williamson.

Dir Bockel changed into more comfortable shoes before the bike check-in entrance.

The Cervelo P5 of Caroline Steffen.