"Some choices are irreversible and some cause irreversible change".
The 2012 Marine Corps Trials are finished - congratulations to the team of 50 athletes chosen to represent at the Warrior Games in April. What an experience! I met some incredible people and hope to stay connected with this program.
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Awesome view of a swim start - David Chirinos
enters the water with a great streamline! |
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The archery competition went as planned even after
all the equipment was stolen just days before trials began. |
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| Cycling included upright, hand cycle, and recumbant bikes. |
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| Track events included both long distance and sprint events |
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Seated volleyball - one "cheek" must be in contact with
the floor at all times. |
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Shooting had multiple categories: rifle (prone and upright) and pistol.
Accuracy was recorded via computerized screen. |
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Wheelchair basketball games were intense! People flipping backwards,
landing on the floor, crashing into one another...
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I did not get to see many events in person due to time spent
at the pool, but I did catch the final events of the track competition. |
It's tough leaving such a positive environment, returning to "the grind" of everyday life. This community exemplified support and encouragement in the face of uncertainty and negative circumstances. I hope to emulate the selfless acts and willing spirits, and long for the camaraderie I witnessed in these few short days.
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We worked hard in the pool but also took
time to enjoy the experience |
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At the pool practicing streamlines. The athletes were expected
to practice the highest level of technique to maximize efficiency. |
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Service dogs assist in more ways than just physical.
Kionte Storey was one of many with a dog this week. |
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The basketball team was led by top of line coaches
from all over the country. |
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The team from Netherlands. They brought wisdom, energy, a competitive spirit,
fun, and hard work to the table. Good to spend time getting to know you!
Best of luck to you all! |
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The French team was a delight to spend time with - willing to learn,
very coachable, and always joking with one another. Interpreters erased the
language barrier and allowed us to share experiences with one another.
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It is easy to disconnect from opportunities when our path is uncertain, redirected, or not what we expected. We all have dreams we push aside because of fear. I often wonder "What would happen if _____ (insert any undesirable life situation here)? How would I respond? What would I change about my life? How would I cope?" After this week I realize I am the only one who can put a limit to the circumstances and experiences in my life.
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| Joe Townsend - also an Ironman UK finisher. |
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Swimming events included 50m Free, 100m Free,
50m back, and 4x50m Free relay. |
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| Shot Put |
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| Robert Norman adapts how he draws back the bow. |
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Paul de Gelder's accuracy was not
effected by the shark attack |
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Manuel Ramirez pushed hard in
the 1500m track event |
In the triathlon world speed, publicity, and rank are rewarded. Don't get me wrong, winning feels great. Meeting a goal offers such a sense of relief and accomplishment. I thrive with structure and goals. But often valuable qualities are lost or forgotten when winning is the focus. There has to be a balance. Let's emphasize the journey rather than the outcome. I'm not suggesting a lack of intensity or squelching the drive inside us to excel. Instead I am reminding us to evaluate the quality of our actions as we meet dreams we once thought were impossible.
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| No lack of intensity here. |
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| Josue Barron is a phenomenal ball player |
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| Pistol events |
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Chuck Sketch is not only a double amputee,
he also is blind. |
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| Joe lapped his competition in this event. |
