Last Minute Decisions

My friend Rich provided an interesting observation this morning: "I've never seen anybody so relaxed about a race."

That was a politically correct way of saying, "Dude, you really should take this more seriously." It IS the National Championships, after all, and my teammates have set very high standards for the type of performance expected from members of the Foothills Masters Swim Team.

But no, I think I have adequate justification for staying mellow. Even when I've had a good training season, my bike and run performance is mid-pack at best. And this has NOT been a good training season. Getting stressed and uptight about details might result in me beating one or two additional slow old farts, but it's not going to put me anywhere near the podium. The bottom line is that I just want to have fun and savor the experience.

Still, I have allowed myself to toy with the wetsuit question. Yes, I know that for most athletes, doing the swim in a Speedo is not even considered; neoprene is mandatory. In fact, many triathletes almost worship their wetsuits for their ability to mitigate stroke flaws and posture issues. I, on the other hand, have always been among those who laugh at those who are so dependent on their wetsuits.

Ha ha! You are a wimp because you choose to take advantage of legal performance-enhancing technology. You also think it's cool to have an aerodynamic bicycle and follow a scientific nutrition plan. Ho ho ho! Hear my derisive laughter and take note of my holier-than-thou attitude as you pass me by! Real men don't need no stinking trophies.

But now, I am forced to admit that I might appreciate the slight time advantage a wetsuit would give me, not to mention the additional warmth should the temperatures be borderline.

The problem is that my own wetsuit was purchased when I was somewhat more svelte. I'm not sure it fits anymore. A smart person would've tested it out at the lake a few weeks ago, but...well, you know. Fortunately, I have another option: Rich let me borrow his wetsuit, which might actually work.

Much like the "Star Wars Kid," I should probably videotape my efforts to try on the suits; YouTube fame could certainly become a possibility if the associated wriggling and cursing were entertaining enough.

No, not THAT Star Wars kid, the one that does the lightsaber dance.

Anyway, it's obvious that I still have preparation to do, whether it's mental, physical, or related to wardrobe issues. I'm running out of time. Guess I'd better get to it.

Watch out for rogue antibodies, and have a great day!