Far Westerns

This was my biggest meet ever. Age Groups was a big meet but not internationally big. I had 3 events. 200 free, 50 back, and 50 free. My coach wasn't there so I got to work with the Mendocino Coast Sea Dragons.

My first event was the 200 free. So when it was time to warm up, I did some kicks and freestyle swimming. I was heat 2, lane 9. At this meet they did something called a chase start. That's where Heat 1, 3, 5, 7, 9... would swim and on there last 50, (This is long course by the way), about half way, they would start heat 2, 4, 6, 8, 10... on the other side of the pool. " Heat 2." I was up. I shoot off the block. I don't go to fast on my first 50 but, not to slow. Like Derek, the Mendocino coach, said," Go out on that pace and hold it. So, that is what I did. When I was finished, I was so upset with the time I got. I had added 3 seconds. When my parents saw how upset I was, they told me that it was ok and I don't always have to cut time. I just need to have fun and try my hardest.

My second event was the 50 back. I was excited for this one because I love backstroke. You won't believe this but, my heat was 2, lane 9! When I was relaxing before I swam, I was listening to my playlist. When it was time to warm up, I headed over to the warm up lane. And boy, that lane was crowded. Derek said I should work on my breakout with fast dolphin kicks. So that is what I did. When it was time for me to go, I was ready. I go under water and do a good breakout. When I finish, I realize I had added time, again.

My last event was the 50 free and I didn't have a lot of time so, my dad went over to the warm up lane to tell me when to get out. I do some kick and swim some freestyle. I head over when it's time. Heat 4, lane 6. I watch the other girls swim and I start doubting myself that I'm not fast, too. It's my time. I step up on the blocks and dive in. I'm swimming faster and faster. When I finish, I see that I have added time once again. but, as I get dressed, I realize those girls got into my head and made me doubt myself. But, I'm fast enough. If I wasn't fast, I wouldn't be at Far Westerns. This was not my best meet but, it was fun.

When I'm not swimming, I'm cheering on my teammates.

Getting pumped to swim!!

Let's get a photo to remember Far Westerns.

I'm on Humboldt's Championship Team.

Let's get a group photo!!