Northwestern University Athletics
The Second Race
8/17/2004 12:00:00 AM | Men's Swimming and Diving
Aug. 17, 2004
Well, the second race ended today around 10:50 a.m. I have to admit I had higher expectations when I looked up at the scoreboard. I wasn't too nervous and think I've done a good job handling the pressure of the Games. The race could have gone a little better though. I can't complain too much, however, because the swim was a personal best and a record as well. I felt good through the entire race. I took 15, 17, 19 and 21 strokes, respectively, throughout each 50.
One of the most important things I learned was my stroke rate was too slow. I mean, in order for me to do my goal time in the near future, I have to up my strokes by two or more each 50. I think I powered the first 100 too much by taking too few strokes.
What can I do but learn from this race? I'm just glad to compete again. I hope in a month and a half, at the World Short Course Championships in Indianapolis, I can do even better.
Other than that, everything is perfect here. The competition venues, food, rest and accommodations can't get any better. I wish I had gone a bit faster, but I'm glad I got the opportunity to learn from this race and do a lot better next time.
This is it so far from Greece. The 200 IM awaits me tomorrow, and I'm going to give it what I have...hopefully I can swim a better race and not have to "learn" too much from it.
Sincerely,
Mike Alexandrov
