Monika A. Paris: August 2008 Archives

We were all glued to the computer when Kate hit the water to swim her second race at the Olympics.  The 800 free distance is one of her favorite races.  She came out very strong and was leading half way through the race.  Her tempo decreased a little during the second half of the race and when she touched the wall, she realized, her time wasn't good enough to make it back to the final on Saturday morning.  Well, her goal was to qualify for the Olympics which she did.  We all know how much dedication and hard work goes into making the Olympic team.  Kate is an incredible inspiration to all of us and she has done something only a very few athletes are capable of.  Kate and Ray are both winners and we can't wait to have them back working with the team. Congratulations on making your Olympic dream, making the team, come true!!  

As Kate prepared for her first swim at the Olympics, she was excited and nervous. "I think I tried to tell myself I wasn't nervous," Kate said. "But I was."  She swam the 400 in a time of 4:09.59, adding 7 seconds to her best time.  However, she feels this swim, simply being part of the Olympics was the best experience ever.   We are all so inspired by her just being at the Olympics that we will cheer her on no matter what.  Kate who is the queen of distance swimming with her favorite event coming up on Thursday, the 800 freestyle, is looking ahead, preparing to swim her best on Thursday in the prelims.  We will be cheering loudly for her!!  Go Kate!