It’s only February, but since States information is already posted everywhere, it’s time to think about what I might swim in April.
In the past, entering has been a bit of a no-brainer because I love distance. So, normally I end up with a collection of the longest events offered — 1650/500, 400 IM, etc. with a few relay-50s tossed in to be social. The biggest decisions have usually been along the lines of: “should I go for a brute squad t-shirt?” and “should I hang around and do the 100 fly for kicks or leave right after the distance event du jour?”
This year however, I’m thinking about a radical (well, for me) approach: maybe a mix of 200s: the IM, back and fly, as well as the 100 breast because I need to start “bench-marking” that particular 400 I.M. leg to track improvement (oh please oh please!) this year pre-LC Nats.
Why the change? Two main reasons: 1) Air quality. It’s been hit or miss during practice for awhile now; during a state meet at full capacity? It’s miserable, as I found out last year during the infamous 1650 heat when everyone stopped due to lack of air. Until they fix it (and there are plans to do so this year) I don’t see the point of gearing up for a PR when I can’t breathe adequately.
And then there’s 2) I’ve been sick for a month. Absolutely, I have nearly nine weeks to get back into shape, and I am sure I will be by States. But as with most years, my focus is not SCY. It’s open water and LC Nats. Therefore, I may start training with those seasons in mind right now and oopps, do a scy meet along the way for the heck of it. So why not do a mess of short events for once?
Of course, how I feel as we approach the deadline will be a strong entry-factor. As will event order. In any case, it’s already been fun right now to think about to doing something a little different this year!
Until next time,
Rebecca, swim evangelist