The Process

Getting ready for Finals tonight (we’re 12 hours ahead of home, East Coast time) I’ve realized how traditional we have been with our process.  By traditional, I mean that we have traditions, set patterns, that we follow for each meet.  And through the years, they are often the same.

My mom, sister and I (and this trip Nicole) follow the same routine.  Up in the morning, eat breakfast together and then off to prelims.  Sightsee, rest and prepare for finals is how the afternoon time is spent.  And then it’s off to the final heats for the evening.

We arrive to our seats early, with time to settle in, before the races begin. We’re air chair critics, without the critisum.  We sit and analyze each person’s race, not because we’re experts or because we’re being picky, rather we need to pass the time until Michael swims.  Believe it or not, I’m convinced that we get more nervous for his swimming than he does.  He’s cool, calm and collected… or at least looks that way.  He comes out on the pool deck exuding ownership and dominance over the water.  It’s incredible. And then you look at us, rocking in our seats, wringing our hands and sometimes, squeezing each other’s hand.

Tonight we have the 200 Free Final and the 200 Fly semi-final.  Well, Michael has the 200 free and the 200 fly, we’re simply watching and cheering.  Two tough events in a field of tough competitors.  It’s sure to be a good night…

Sitting in our seats the first morning

Headed into the pool and through security

Some sightseeing in The Old City

Michael on the blocks for the 200 free semi-final