Today was my first swim meet in 17 years. I was nervous enough in signing up early in February that I only signed up for three very short events... the 50 Fly, 50 Free, and 100 IM. When the day finally arrived, I was happy that I had selected those events, but also a bit bummed that I hadn't had a bit more confidence in myself and signed up for a few longer events (the 200 IM? 200 Free? 100 Fly?). Alas... I was resolved to put everything that I had into those races and have fun!
Warm up was much as I remembered. A gaggle of swimmers all piled into lanes laughing as they attempted to do a few laps and get ready. The sprint lanes opened, and I got a few starts under my belt. For some reason, going off the block after all these years just felt natural. I was feeling ready.
The 50 Fly was my first race. As I remembered from years ago, the butterflies in my stomach disappeared as soon as I stepped on the block. A few shakes of the arms, a "Take Your Mark," and we were off. I felt surprisingly smooth and strong during this first race. Perhaps a little too smooth. After I hit the wall, I realized that I probably could have put a bit more into it - but, I think I was worried about blowing up, so I raced a bit on the conservative side. Alas... I was THRILLED with a 30.13 and a National Cut! I'm convinced that I can break 30 seconds... maybe next time.
The 50 Free came next and I was excited for it. Definitely NOT my strong suit (sprint freestyle), but I wanted to just keep my form together and use my legs to power through. My turn was CRAPTASTIC - and I'm sure it cost me a few tenths - but, I finished strong and looked up to see a 28.35 on the board!! WHAT??? I was just hoping to get below 30! A 28 was really awesome to see. And, I found out later that it, too, was a National cut.
Finally, the one I was most excited for... the 100 IM!! It was SO FUN! I took my fly all out this time... no skimping. My turn to backstroke was rough - tons of water up my nose. But, I held it together and had a solid turn from back to breast. My splits were really solid, and I was again surprised and happy to hit the wall and see a 1:10.37 on the board. Nearly 3 seconds under the National cut for that event!
WHAT??? Three races... three cuts? No way.
I had an amazing time at the event. I met some awesome people, was invited to check out a few different teams, which I probably will do, and was inspired by amazing stories of perseverance.
Like this lady - Joan Waldbaum... 85 years old. She raced the 100 IM in the heat before me. She has survived pancreatic cancer and is currently on hospice care for stage 4 cancer. She inspired an entire natatorium with every kick and was honored with a lifetime achievement award after the meet. I feel utterly grateful for having met her today. And, I will carry her amazing spirit with me everywhere I go.
As a testament to how nice people are, I was able to get my events filmed! So, here's a little video for you to watch! Whee!!
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