The Turkey Trot

I'm home for the wonderful holiday of Thanksgiving.  I have finally gotten a chance to see my friends and family.  And since it is Thanksgiving, there is one thing that always comes to mind-- "The Turkey Trot 10,000."  Instead of tips, pointers, and my opinions, I think today is a perfect day for nostalgia.

My club swim coach made up a swim set dubbed, "The Turkey Trot 10,000."  Unfortunately, since I have been swimming with him for what seems to be eons, I have completed this torturous, and sometimes monotonous set numerous times.

The name gives it away-- "10,000"-- ten thousand yards. woo hoo (said without the least bit of enthusiasm).

Looking back on the first few times I did this set, the Turkey Trot had a few monotonous options.  We had our choice of 400x25, 200x50, 100x100, 50x200, 20x500.  I'm not sure for certain- but I believe most were on a 1:20 pace.

I can proudly say that I have completed both the 400x25s and the 100x100s.  I don't remember the 25s too much, but I can recall swimming the 100s.  I remember trying to count, make the set fun, and somehow convince myself that I was going to be done soon.  I remember trying to squeeze a sip of Gatorade in every chance I got-- 400 laps is no joke.  I also remember picking the 100s by myself.  If you're ever swimming 10,000-- get a partner and encourage each other-- because 10,000 yards takes a long time.

After those experiences, the option of an actual set came into play.  That wasn't as bad.  I remember having kicking and swimming incorporated into the set-- even some 25s here and there. 400 laps is 400 laps, but at least distances and times were constantly changing.

After-- after touching the glorious wall for the last time, After realizing that you don't have to swim one more gosh darn lap (until tomorrow), After having your body slightly collapse from all the work you put it through -- you hop out of the pool for bagels!  My coach, assistant coach, helpful parent, or swimmer usually brings bagel and spreads.. The best part.  After all, a swimmer's body needs replenishment after that sort of workout/ torture.

The Turkey Trot is a wonderful thing to look back on.  Especially since now that I am in college, I am forced to miss this event for my own college team practice.  I miss the thought of the Turkey Trot and the thought of being done.  But, honestly, I'm glad I have a legitimate excuse for missing the Turkey Trot.  ...Maybe next year ;)