Monday 5/21 through Wednesday 5/23 - Enjoying Paris

We arrived in Paris on Monday morning to the luck of no rain. It was raining the last two days, but it was gone by the time we got there. Monday we checked into our hotel room at Les Jardin De Marais. From the outside it looked like nothing, but once you entered, there were at least 6 buildings and a cute courtyard. Here is a picture:

We also made sure to hit a local swimming pool so that we can keep on the taper train. After my quick workout, I was feeling really good, especially in the fly. I am excited for all my events, but especially the 200 fly, since its the first time I am swimming this event at an IGLA event.

Monday night we all went to dinner:


Tuesday we went to Versailles, which was incredible. Its really fun to travel with the swim team as we really consider each other one big family. I have been told that even other IGLA teams envy our closeness, which makes me feel good that I am a part of this and possibly a small part of the reason. Here is a picture of us walking towards the castle.


Wednesday was occupied by a lot of swimming preparation. Drew, myself, Andrea and Maureen spent the first half of the day together. We started off by heading down to register, only to find out they were not ready yet. So instead we went and had some coffee


and then bumped up our swim practice so that we can get that done and the register. Workout felt decent and I am excited for the meet to begin. Tomorrow is the 1500 free, 400 IM and the 4X200 free relay. I am doing all three events, which may be crazy, but hey, challenges are fun. My goal for the 1500 is to be under 18:15, and if I am doing good, under 18:00. For the 400 IM, my best time going in was 5:10.39 from Gay Games last year, but since I went 5:13 in December, the goal is to get as close to 5 minutes as possible. Then there is the 4X200 free relay. Two years ago I swam 2:08.90, and last year I anchored the relay in 2:07.50, so I am wanting 2:06 or better. Being that its the third event for me that day, I will give it my all, but know I may be tired.

Let the games begin!!