When it came time to perform, the crowd was silent. I was on a ledge that was three feet above the water. I stared at the crystal blue water and saw my reflection. I gripped firmly on the edge of the diving board and leaned forward to face my next challenge. From the height of the diving board, the black tiles located at the center of every lane appeared to be endless. I glanced …show more content…
My feet were splashing the water louder and louder. My goggles were filled with water and were unbearable to see through. The edge of the pool was closer after every stroke. My opponents were rushing down the lanes to gain victory. The crowds erupted in cheers and applause. Their sea of smiles motivated me to finish the race. The mechanics and the precise turns regulated in swimming were crucial to these few short seconds. As I came close to my final strokes, my stomach started twisting and my heart beat began to rise. I stretched my arms and reached for the edge of the pool. This marked the end of the race. I threw my goggles in the pool and looked directly at the big screen. I was ten seconds away from being in first place. I was devastated on the final score and walked to my car with a sense of defeat. Even though I did not win the race, I conquered the physical and mental challenge of the sport.
The strenuous physical work in practice did not compare to my race. Although the performance in my race did not go as I planned, I was proud of myself for preserving. The personal splendor I felt was one that I never felt before. The obstacles in my race did not deteriorate my chances to succeed. Overall, my first swimming competition proved to be my journey to success. No matter how the journey ends, the amount of dedication that one outputs can determine the victory of the journey. I had nothing to prove to anyone, except myself. Learning to lose was a