Our first dip into the competition pool was an adventure. You learn one thing really fast at an international warm-up: there are no rules. It’s mass chaos and sometimes even a full-contact sport. I had to kick over 20m underwater on a fast 50 because someone pushed off right in front of me and the only way to get past him was to go under him. But we all managed to survive. The pool is awesome because it’s in an arena and the atmosphere will be even better if the stands are filled. The hype is starting to build around the city as the swimming edges closer. The media doesn’t seem to care much about the other aquatic sports (I’ve barely seen any coverage – pretty much only swimming commercials). However they are going to show every final LIVE on one of the country’s major cable channels. If only Canadian media was that excited about swimming. It’s so nice to be in a country where you’re sport is appreciated. And where their best swimmers are like rock stars. So I guess since I can say that I know some of them personally, I pretty much know some rock stars... like Randy Bennett. (I had to say that to get my $7.50 back. See "special comment" below).
We went and watched the Canadian men’s waterpolo team take on Hungary. It was a bit of a blow out for the Hungarians, who are massive by the way. The coolest part was after each goal they blew fire from four fire-shooters (or whatever they’re called) around the pool. To quote Eugene (the bum-grabber below), “This is so WWF Wrestling!” Very cool.
The Canadian National Champs have begun back at home and we’re all anxiously watching the results come up online. Spots on the FISU team are up for grabs, so we are basically in a virtual competition here. And it really gives us something to do, because we’ve been demoted to only 4 channels on TV. It’s pretty rough, I know.
But in better news, I’ve discovered this country’s best-kept secret - cheesecake yogurt! It’s almost better than the real thing. I just wish I could take some home with me…
2 comments:
this is a great site, the first thing i do each day, is find out what is happening with the swim team, way to go kelly!!!
"big fan"
please have your people send me the $10.00)
Hi Kelly:
Really appreciate your comments, insights & sense of humour. It's great to see what really goes on: such as warmups, and everything else. Please keep it up. Also, have you been able to get a pic of Brent without him making some wierd face? We have not in the past 14 years!
Wishing you and everyone 'Down Under; all the best. Thank you for all the time you have put into this.
Chuck
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