I probably won’t swim the 200 IM anytime soon. As it is, I have a problem balancing the events that I do swim (50/100/200 free, 100 back, 100 fly, relays…) My first major international competition was the 1999 Pan Pacific Games in Sydney, Australia. The only event that I competed in was the 200 IM and after semi’s I was in 8th place. Since I was the third American swimmer, however, I did not advance to finals.

I like all types of music, but I usually don’t listen to my iPod at the actual meet. I think that it’s a good idea to “stay in the moment” and socialize with my teammates around me.

I try to remind myself of all the hard work that I have put in throughout the year, and that usually calms any nerves.

Other than taper, I really don’t do anything special in training before a major international competition.

Sydney, Australia