The Magic Suit

Mike had suggested that I bring my wetsuit out to the next swim. This time we did it at Cal High where lots of other real swimmers would be. I had a dose of tequila before going out there - which might have helped. I was kind of nervous to be in the deep end and also embarrassed to have a wetsuit on in the swimming pool.

Anyway, I get there and it is COLD outside, which made me deliberate less on putting it on. I jump in the water and discover that it is IMPOSSIBLE to sink. It was really amazing. I could swim without using my legs at all and just glide through the water. Siding was super easy, as was breathing. I could focus on stroke and trying out the things that Sandy has been sharing with me. I didn't use it too long, but just long enough to count my strokes and see what my lap times were. I was down to 14-16 strokes and my lap times were about 25 seconds, which I think I could sustain for a long time. Even if I slow to an average of 40 seconds, which seemed crazy slow in a wetsuit, that would put me at doing the IM swim in 1.7 hours. I absolutely can't wait to do open water swims now. This was such a huge confidence booster for me. I took it off and swam normally and did lots of drills. I am feeling better and I am able to do my drills without my zoomers on anymore, which is a huge improvement. Overall, I am starting to see results. I think I could be a strong swimmer by '11, and be ok by the time Vineman comes.

I have had a couple people, especially Sandy, Maria, and Tiffany, come forward and give me tips, send videos, and give me encouragement to keep going. I am thankful to be blessed with team-mates and friends that are willing to take the time to keep me moving forward.