Panic No More

"Doubt can only be removed by action.” - Goethe

Just over one year ago, I swam in open water for the first time. It was dark and choppy and panic-inducing. I had to focus all of my attention on simply exhaling so as not to hyperventilate. Thinking about form or sighting or speed was kind of out of the question.

Yesterday, my sister and I enjoyed over 45 minutes of open water swimming at Jordan Lake. We practiced sighting, worked on form, and simulated race conditions, complete with kicking, grabbing, and a little unintentional scratching (thanks Ray!).

I felt strong, speedy, ready for Saturday's race and pleased that not even a hint of panic entered into my consciousness. The swim gremlins are at rest. Hooray!