Cameron Horner's Postcard from the NCAAs
3/26/2010 12:00:00 AM | Men's Swimming and Diving
March 26, 2010
Miami's Cameron Horner (Columbus) begins competition today at the NCAA Men's Swimming & Diving Championships at Ohio State University. Here is his first blog from Ohio's capitol city.
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Delayed. I was sitting in my hotel room when I got a call from coach saying that the meet had been delayed. Never has an NCAA championship final ever been postponed or delayed for any reason. My trainer, Misao, and I were left speechless as we tried to piece the puzzle together.
After hearing that nineteen West Coast swimmers had been hospitalized, however, no one was questioning the decision. The rest of the night was full of worry and concern. Concern for those affected by this virus, and worry about what the aquatic staff was doing to make sure no one else (ME!) would come down with whatever it was that was going around. Misao was frantic.
As the morning rolled around, I found myself waking up at ten o'clock and extremely well rested. Shortly after, a call from Misao distracted me from a chaotic morning of channel surfing. The pool had been swept and cleaned as to help prevent anyone else from falling victim to the "plague."
After a quick lunch stop, we headed for the pool. With a big black boot on my foot, I hobbled into the Aquatic Pavilion, listening to the sound of bouncing boards. The pool was full of divers taking advantage of the newly adopted practice time. Banners from all opposing schools and teams line the diving well and competition pool as I wonder to myself, "how did I make it here again?"
I thought of the people who helped me get here; the friends and family that always support me through thick and thin. After walking onto deck in my "uniform" I picked and pulled at a swimsuit that reminds me just how personal my sport really is.
After a quick warm - up and a heavy stretch I hit the boards. Though practice was quick and simple, it made me realize that all the preparation and work that needs to be done, is done. I've accomplished all I can to get me as far as I am, so there is no need to be nervous or anxious about being unprepared. True, I may be running on nerves. But that's not to say that these nerves aren't fully fueled by excitement and thrill.
After practice, we exit underneath the high-flying Miami banner. I was quickly filled with a rush of emotions as I realized the people and strength behind this experience. It's not just Cameron being represented at this meet; this weekend is a true sign of the entire Miami University Swimming and Diving program, as well as the athletic system as a whole. An entire family being represented on the country's stage.
--www.MURedHawks.com--
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