New Respect

I have new respect for all synchronized swimmers today. I have long known that it is a difficult sport, and takes a lot of skill and athleticism. But, now I really know. Like in, I have tried it and failed miserably!

Here's the story. Back in June, when Olivia competed at the Grand Canyon State Games, there were two Master's routines that swam. Master's is for anyone over the age of 20. A group of coaches from one of the other teams swam, and four ladies from Sun City West. I think their average age was 82. So, I got talking with a bunch of synchro mom friends, and we decided that next year, we would swim a routine. I mean, how hard can it be, really? And if 80 year old women can do it, then so can we! Right?

So, one of those moms and I decided that we better start swimming now to get in shape, so we don't completely embarrass ourselves. We swam a few laps a couple of weeks ago, and then last night we went with Olivia to practice and decided to really give it a try.

Let me just say, I am completely out of shape. Or maybe my shape is just super jiggly and weak. But after a pathetically few number of laps, I felt like I was going to throw up and then I could finally understand why some swimmers cheat on their laps.

So, after resting up for probably way too long, my friend and I started to try to do some figures. The operative word here is try. I have no idea how any synchro swimmer does anything they do. I couldn't even do the basic of the basic. How sad. We tried to coach each other, but since neither of us really knew what we were doing (you'd think we would after the amount of time we spend at practices, but apparently we really don't pay attention), it didn't go well. Finally, Olivia took pity on us and gave us a few pointers. I still couldn't do any of it, but after some encouraging words from both Olivia and her coach, I guess I'll give it another try tomorrow.

I'm not sure the routine next June is going to happen. I think this body is too old to teach new tricks to. And it has too many parts that hurt, or don't work right, or are too chubby, or too flabby, or just plain too old.

I think Olivia is embarrassed by me. And I can't say that I blame her.