Boris Stein, a top-5 hopeful for the big one on Saturday.
05/10/2016, CANYON Kona Build-up With Boris Stein
The Calm Before The Storm
How does a top-10 finisher from last year put the final touches on their preparation before the big day arrives? For Boris Stein, it's about conserving as much energy as possible to get mind and body ready for battle. This is the calm before the storm.
Even three days out from the race, music helps to calm the nerves.
A touch of photography too keeps Boris occupied.
If you're after a challenge to match an Ironman, try reading The Tin Drum by Günter Grass. Seriously...
There's no more training to be done, Boris hands over his bike to Canyon mechanic Stefan Keul and won't touch it again until check-in.
Stefan makes the final pre-competition adjustments.
Including applying a special low-friction chain for the special race.
At this level, every advantage can make the difference if Boris is to achieve a top-5 finish this time around.
The white powder reduces friction to save Boris a handful of vital watts.
Calm on the surface, lava bubbling underneath - the pretty much sums up the final countdown to the World Championships.
All photos by Tino Pohlmann.