Ready to Race

When the 10^th December ticked over I was filled with adrenaline. I felt ready to race. Of course I had my doubts but they had been buried by my excitement. Battle of the beach was the first competition on Friday night. On Sunday would come the ‘real’ first carnival at Ocean Grove.

Battle of the beach would be tough. Starting off with three 90m-beach sprint races. I was just happy to make it through. The beach flags was what I really wanted to win. Before I knew it, we were down to the final race off. Pausing for a moment, I realised how much I had gone through to put myself here. I smiled and took up my position. From here, it didn’t matter what happened, because I had made it this far. Nailing the turn, my competitive spirit kicked in. Diving to the ground, I grabbed the flag to take the win. Overwhelmed by emotion and excitement, my hands trembled. The thrill of competing came flooding back. This was a wonderful moment.

Backing up on Sunday for competition would test the body. This was the first official carnival for the year. A cold, windy and rainy day at the beach was nothing new at a Victorian surf carnival. Excitement and enthusiasm had carried through from Friday night as I found myself lining up in the final few for the beach flags. To confirm to myself that Friday night had not been a fluke! Again I found myself in the final two. Again I paused and remembered and smiled and laughed to myself in my head. I was here. Friday night was not a fluke as I backed up with victory again.

Being back on the beach and feeling fit was amazing. Over the past 12 months a lot had gone on. Physically, mentally and emotionally I had been pulled through the highs, the lows and everything in between. My moods had been up and down. My doubts came and went. However when I stepped onto the beach, I was ready.

For this, I owe credit to my team. All of the inspirational people and supporters around me. On the medical side the main contributors were my surgeon, physio, physiologist, psychologist and massage therapist. My housemates, friends and family. Joe and the Gulli gang, my old training squad. Everyone at the Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club for their care and support. The Angle beachies squad, the guys that make training so wonderful every single day. I look forward to training so much because of you guys! Nai, Nes, Jade and Balls who inspire me to keep going and search for the best in myself. Andy who’s advise is invaluable. Mum and Dad for being there whenever I needed and offering their support no matter what happened.

My coach Van, what an inspirational friend you have been. Your outlook on life, your views on issues, your coaching ability are second to none. Above all I admire your attitude to ‘keeping it real.’ Keeping me down to earth. I love your passion for getting the very best out of your athletes. I cant thank you enough for the time and energy you have invested in me as an athlete and friend.

My sister Claire, thank you for being their every step of the way. You inspire me.

Thanks to Danielle Lynch for the wonderful photos.