Derek and Melissa’s Family
Our adventures, stories, and ramblings.
Adventures | For Derek
The 200m Swim
by Derek—2005.07.14 @ 1032
I had a shock today when I learned the swim portion of the Leistungsabzeichen was scheduled for 12 noon. Suzette and I weren't even sure if we were officially registered for the event, but we decided to go ahead with the event. What really worried me was that I had just finished running 5 miles this morning and was a little tired. In addition, I haven't been swimming in a pool for over a year (not counting Basic Training).
I met the crew at the Fort Myer pool at noon ready for the swim. The pool is 50m, so the swim would be four lengths. Fifty meters started to look like a long swim all by itself. I opted to go with the second group. I watched with eagerness as the first two swam back and forth in the pool, and I judged whether or not my pace would be as quick. The best part about the swim test is that you can use any stroke you want. From watching the first two swim, I gained some confidence that I could do it too.
What really worried me was the time. I was in the first age bracket--18-29 year-olds, and for males, that meant 6 minutes to complete 200m. I'm sure for some swimmers, 6 minutes is an eternity, but for me, it seemed like a very short time.
On the mark, I jumped in the pool and began to swim very competively (for me, a non-competitor), and made the first 100m in 2 minutes. I felt pretty good, but I was getting tired. I started to change my stroke on the next 100 meters, using the backstroke. I glanced up a few times and discovered that I was zig-zagging all over the lane, and it took more effort to try and stay on course. I actually hit Suzette a few times (she was in the lane with me).
Suzette beat me. I did the last 50 meters doing a slow breast stroke and swam, intently listening to the coach tell my time: 5 minutes, 20 seconds...25...30...35. I had to touch the other end before 6 minutes! Well I did. I think my final time was 5 minutes 45 seconds.
Yeah, I'm not a great swimmer. After I was pulled out of the pool, I dropped onto the cement and closed my eyes, feeling the burn in my arms and chest. I was exhausted, but glad I passed this portion. Maybe instead of running, I'll swim for a change--it's a lot of work.