Chicago, where I did most of my planning

A very Sydney Uni family!

The Pembrokeshire coastline, Wales, a supremely beautiful part of the world!

   It’s been a long quiet patch for me with my newsletters. I’ve had my nose to the grindstone planning out this coming season, and beyond towards Olympic Trials. I’ve planned training schedules, competitions, travel, and also outlined the breakdown of energy systems trained each week. I have been in pre-season training while I was challenging myself with all this planning, and am ready to plunge back into full training this week!

   Over these past two months I’ve also had the privilege of encountering many amazing and talented people, one in particular, Jack. He’s 81, he swims 3 times a week, he absolutely brims with energy, and he can do a praying mantis style push up hold (see link below). Meeting inspiring people like that always helps me remind myself that no challenge is too great, if I commit to it completely! Also, if Jack can do it, so can I!

    Coaching myself brings about many greater and exciting challenges that I haven’t had to face in the past. Not only for an experience perspective and planning of programs, but also on the levels of self trust, motivation and dedication. From this year forward, swimming will be a new sport to me, one which I am challenging myself in multiple facets of the sport, as a coach, a swimmer and a teammate. It’s exciting, and I feel more than ready for the challenge! It’s an experience I’ve been waiting for and preparing myself towards for years. Even over these past 2 months where I’ve been in pre-season training, I’ve loved the focus, challenge, and understanding that doing it myself brings.

   To be fair, I’m not entirely doing it on my own! I have a team of elite and supportive coaches and support staff helping me, and working with me. Paul Haslam at City Gym will continue to work with me closely on my gym programs, and Jim Steen of Kenyon College is helping me structure my season plan. A great big thank you to both of these coaches, and friends. Also, the therapists at Holographic Health and Sports Lab, as well as those at LifeWorks Health Clinic, and Energy Clinic continue to help me hone my body, mind and soul.  

   This week also marks the continuation of my Maters in International Studies. So really, as of March 5, 2007, it’s ALL SYSTEMS GO!

    Thank you very much for all your endless support, kindness, and interest in my endeavours. I’ll continue sending out my newsletters to share coming experiences, challenges, and fun! And a special thank you to Jack, a true champion!