Tag: swimming

When every stroke counts…

Shen Holiday Invitational

December 2024

The holiday competition for the New York Upstate Region, aka Section 2 high schools, was held at Shenendehowa High School on December 14th. With 19 regional schools in attendance, it was a festive day of fierce competition and fast lanes.

As one of the newer members on the team, just four weeks into training, I raced freestyle in the 50- and 100-yard events. In the 50-yard race, I placed 56th out of 125 swimmers—not too shabby for someone still perfecting their turns!

Here are the key takeaways from the day:

  • Flip and Turn Like a Pro: Flip turns are a game-changer. Every fraction of a second matters, and smoother, faster turns can make a huge difference, especially in longer races.
  • Start with Power: A strong jump off the blocks sets the tone for the entire race. It’s all about making that first move count.
  • Finish Like a Champ: On the final stroke, no stalling—just reach for that pad like the timer owes you money.
  • Every Stroke Matters: Whether you’re leading or chasing, the race isn’t over until you touch the wall. Keep pushing, because anything can happen in those last few strokes.

It was a day full of lessons and inspiration. With some tweaks and training, I’m excited to dive back in and climb up that leaderboard. Watch out, Section 2, this is just the beginning!

Making New Waves

December 2024

I’ve always been drawn to the water—whether it’s rowing, swimming, snorkeling, or even just relaxing in a tub. According to my parents, my first swimming adventure was at 7 months old in the Aegean Sea, and judging by the picture of me snorkeling at age 9, it’s clear that my love for the water has only grown.

During summers, my dad and I take this passion to another level. We swim 2.5 miles every day, starting with a jump into the sea, swimming to the next town, stopping for a quick breakfast, and then swimming back to our apartment. It’s become a tradition that combines endurance, bonding, and a deep appreciation for the open water.

This winter, I decided to push myself further. Instead of spending the season rowing indoors, I joined the swim team to try something new and challenge myself / make new waves. For the past three weeks, I’ve been practicing six days a week for three hours a day, enduring intensive drills that have tested my limits.

Today marked my first official swim meet. I raced in four freestyle events, finishing in the middle of the pack—3rd or 4th in each event. For my first time competing, I’m proud of how far I’ve come and excited to keep improving.

  • 50 meters free style
  • 100 meters free style
  • 4 x 50 meters relay
  • 4 x 100 meters relay