Photos: Pre-Race From Henderson, Nevada

The early-morning view at Lake Las Vegas.

Henderson Mayor Andy Hafen welcomed the athletes at the 2012 Ironman World Championship 70.3 in Lake Las Vegas, Nevada.

Dave Ragsdale emceed the welcome dinner at the 2012 Ironman World Championship 70.3 in Lake Las Vegas, Nev.

In true Vegas fashion rhythmic gymnastics entertained the athletes at the welcome dinner.

Faris Al-Sultan and Matty Reed.

Welcome to Las Vegas!

Faris Al-Sultan traveled from Europe to take part in this world championship event.

Trevor and Heather Wurtele were two of the pros on hand at the practice swim.

Twins Bernedette and Elizabeth Dornom at the practice swim Saturday morning at Lake Las Vegas.

Most of the bike course is on the rolling hills of the Lake Mead National Park.

The kids got to participate in a one-mile fun run in Henderson on Saturday.

The kids got to participate in a one-mile fun run in Henderson on Saturday.

The kids got to participate in a one-mile fun run in Henderson on Saturday.

The expo.

Athletes brave the 100-degree heat at the 2012 Ironman World Championship 70.3 expo.

The crew from Specialized is ready and willing to work on some race machines.

Bevan Docherty is the only 2012 London Olympian on hand for the Vegas race. His win in Panama in February gave him enough points for the start.

Andy Potts also has a 70.3 world championship to his name.

Michael Raelert did not have the opportunity to defend his 2009 and 2010 70.3 world titles last year.

Heather Jackson was all smiles before, during and after the pro panel.

Mirinda Carfrae will look to add another 70.3 world title to her resume on Sunday. This will be her first time racing on the Nevada course.

Crowie fields a question at the pro panel at the 2012 Ironman World Championship 70.3 in Henderson, Nev.