Sounnds like you did everything right Jim. I have competed Kona several times, grew up on the island and you hit the nail on the head...cannon blows and we go to work! Congrats man!
How appropriate... as it was father's day yesterday :-) Which IM did you do?? I am not sure if you can be a former IM. Once an IM, remains an IM. Isn't it true? =)
Which IM are you hoping to race in?
Happy training and hope you get the same kick of training for another IM this time around as before!