2009 National Championship Meet - Gainesville, Fla.

The National meet started for us, very early June 25th. We all met at the airport at 4:30am. We said good bye to the parents who weren't going with us, and our flight left at 6:25.

Waiting at the gate:

Friday the girls were in the pool at the hotel and then had practice at the "Gator Pool"in the evening. As soon as we got there, we could tell this was a different meet. The air of competition was much more intense than a regular meet. It was also a lot louder! This was the first time this team swam in an indoor pool, and on top of that, there were 30 other teams there! There were more than 30 represented in the 11/12 age group, some may have had a solo or trio there, but not a team routine.

Saturday morning were solos and duets. Marissa made finals, and we were all happy for her. The team competition was in the afternoon. Santa Clara had the first draw and they swam beautifully. The first 16 teams swam, and then there was a 30 minute break. I used that opportunity to go out side and cool off!! It was so hot and humid in the pool, that being outside in Florida, in June, no less, was a relief! The girls were #20, and by then we knew they needed at least a 61 and maybe a 62 to get to finals. The girls had a very good swim....

We were all a little nervous, but we knew they had a great shot at a good score.

The girls waiting for their score: