From our on-site race reporter, David Bright…

Four NEM’s traveled to San Juan Puerto Rico for the USMS Long Course Nationals and returned with a 10th place banner in the regional team category. Tracy Grilli, Jill Litman, Homer Lane and Dave Bright made the trek to the Caribbean to represent New England.

In addition to the beautiful tropical location, this meet was unique in a number of ways. It was the first national meet of the post-tech suit era, they used a weekday – Monday thru Thursday schedule and they included an open water swim. It was also likely the first meet with free rum drinks, salsa dancing lessons and a pig roast in the pool lobby. The facility was beautiful, with a roof for shade and open sides for a nice breeze. Apparently thunder and lightning are no cause for concern as the meet went on through occasional brief storms. The meet was smaller than most, which meant no crowding on deck or in the warm up pool, and an earlier finish time each day. Some popular side trips included Old San Juan inside centuries old forts and walls, the El Junque rainforest, kayaking in bioluminescent waters and the Bacardi distillery (more free rum drinks).

In the pool, many of the former full body suit fans were noticing a drop off in their times but there were still a number of records set and there was plenty of great racing.

Each national meet has it’s own flavor and offerings, but they all include the opportunity to swim in great facilities alongside the best athletes in our sport – past Olympians and current record holders. There is the opportunity to share your interest with great folks from around the country. USMS had daily video recaps which really captured the atmosphere of the event (www.usms.org/comp/lcnats10/gallery.php)

Next up are the short course meet – April 28 to May 1 in Mesa Arizona and long course – August 3 – 6 at Auburn University in Alabama. Mark your calendars…

Summary –
Tracy Grilli – 800 Free – 6th / 50 Fly 9th / 200 Free – 10th / 400 Free – 5th / 200 IM – 7th / 100 Fly – 5th
Jill Litman – 50 Fly – 10th / 100 Fly – 8th
Dave Bright – 800 Free – 4th / 100 Back – 6th / 200 Back – 4th / 200 IM – 6th / 50 Back – 5th
Homer Lane – 200 Free – 3rd / 50 Free – 3rd / 200 IM – 4th / 400 Free – 3rd / 100 Free – 4th

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