"I think of the thousands of hours. The 4 AM training sessions, the endless strength and conditioning sessions, the juggle, the support, the grit, the breathing. It has all led to this. I take a long, slow breath. The last breath before the plunge. This is what I’ve been waiting for.I think of my grandma. That’s what she would say: “Be calm. Breathe deep”. In through the nose, and out through the mouth. I’ve learned to breathe through everything. My breath has helped me come this far. It’s helped me to manage obstacles and deal with challenges. It’s helped me to reach my potential. It’s helped me to clear my mind; to own my emotions. I’ve learned to inhale the good and exhale the bad.Breathe. Full peace of mind. Full strength. Slow. Careful. Calm.Swimmer’s take your mark. - BEEP! -Breathe.”