March 8th 2009

I have had a productive week as the Stingrays up their game. They are increasing their weekly lane tally and the pace is harder. No time for chat, the coaches have found their voices as they count us down to the next set. On Monday I did 4,300 meters in just over an hour. Wednesday I managed to get to the new DG1 Leisure Centre in Dumfries as I was staying overnight, partly for work reasons but I did go and see Fairport Convention on Tuesday night and confirmed my aging hippy status and thoroughly enjoyed the gig. The new pool in Dumfries is really good. The young squad were just getting out when I got there for public lane swimming at 7am and they told me they start at 5.30am. I joined the lane swimmers and it seemed well managed with attentive lifeguards who ensured we were in the right lanes. I only got 45 minutes but managed 2,250 meters and concentrated on long stretchy technique as Harry had suggested. Thursday morning, I was back with the Stingrays and completed 3,800 meters. I had a problem with my back midway and had to get out and lie on the floor to 'unkink' it. As I lay there the kids had finished their set and were regarding me through their bug goggles looking like strange insects from the deep. One of them said 'shall we call an ambulance?' Cheeky and wonderful children. It made me smile all day.