Now's the Time on Sprockets When We Write a Blog Post

"Two weeks from today, I will wake up in Rome."

I have thought these words twice before, and again today I feel the weight of this realization and the same level of excitement, but with ever so slightly diminished nerves. I get to visit Rome for the third time and compete alongside my teammates at an international competition hosted in what I believe to be the most incredible venue ever.

I mean, does it get better than this?

  

This will be my third time competing at this swim meet, the 'Trofeo Sette Colli,' as it is now called. The first 'appearance' in 2005 was a special treat for me. (I use 'appearance' because, as a 15-year-old at my first international meet, I did just that--I appeared, finished last in everything, then left.) Essentially riding on the talent of the older, world-class swimmers on my team, I somehow earned an invitation to the meet. Shy and afraid of competing in an environment where I clearly had no real right to be, my coach calmly told me not to worry about the times. It was about the experience, he said, because the next time I stepped up to race at an elite meet, it would be easier.

He was right. For the second visit in 2007, I felt more at ease walking on deck, and (I am proud to say) I did NOT finish last in anything.

Now, heading into this third meet, I still feel some apprehension, but also a sense of confidence gained through experience. Also, since this is likely the last time I will compete in such an environment, I mostly feel excited. Excited and grateful to have such an opportunity. Again.

My team will spend four days training in Rome, leading up to the three-day competition from June 17-19. While the meet is the main purpose for this trip, we will hopefully find time in those four days to explore the endless beauty of Rome.