Thursday, February 28, 2008

The Beijing Experience

If you followed the event, you'll know that Riley and Reuben were unsuccessful in their efforts to secure a 10 metre synchro spot for Canada. We knew a top eight finish would be very difficult and they would have to both dive flawlessly. Unfortunately, they each made a mistake which cost them any chance and ended up 13th. It was a long shot but would have been awesome for Riley, Reuben and the Canadian team.

I haven't had a a chance to talk to Riley in depth about Beijing but he did tell me he got the experience in the pool he needed and he was pleased with his training regime. He did end up getting sick while there which was a real frustration for him as he has been struggling to stay healthy. Long work outs, less sleep, rapid growth and diet are all impacting him and he really needs to focus on taking care of himself outside of the pool.

So Riley is now in Miami training and getting ready to compete in the Winter Nationals in Regina. I've decided to go to Regina and cheer him on. Feeling the need to connect and to provide what ever support I can. It will be a tough meet, not from a results perspective - there isn't much on the line, but the opportunity to dominate the event is important as everyone is chasing him for that very important spot in August. I'm really looking forward to watching him compete ... even if it is in the middle of the prairies in winter!

Oh, and one last Beijing note - he did report the shopping was "kick ass"! Can't wait to see what he brought me!

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