2 days left before the swim

Well, in 2 days I will swim my first open water event at Lake Gaston. This is a significant step for me in my swimming for 2 reasons. One, it is the longest distance I will ever have swum (swam?!) continuously in my life. The longest so far has been the 1000 yd freestyle while swimming as a Seahawk for UNC Wilmingon in 1988. Yep, a while ago.

Secondly, to go into an open water (lake, ocean, waterway, etc.) race is a big deal. There are a plethora of other factors that enter the equation, currents, water temp, weather, sealife, and for me, the dreaded "germ factor!" Lakes can be notoriously dirty, yet that varies depending on the specific lake. So, for me, being immunosuppressed, it is a risk factor.

For a long time, I would not have entertained the idea of swimming open water for this reason, as well as a lack of self-confidence. I have continued to meet, and hear of, transplant recipients who are participating in open water venues. Since my heart health remains strong, I believe it is not unreasonable to move forward. In addition, for me to be an effective instructor for Total Immersion Swimming, it is important to prove its value through personal achievement. And, the truth is my confidence to attempt this is due to my improved stroke technique via Total Immersion teaching.

A friend told me many years ago that there is often a fine line between excitement and fear. I have found this to be true in many areas of my life, and it is definitely the gospel truth for the Lake Gaston swim.