Anyone with lots of Nationals experience want to speculate on what time the 500 free will be swum on Sunday? That's the last event of the meet. I'm 33 and will be in a fairly fast heat.
My gut feel is I might want to plan on not flying out until Monday.
Last Nats at Indy in 2000 we were wrapped up shortly after 3 pm eastern. I'd expect it may take a little longer due to growth over the 4 year period but atleast this gives you a little to go on.
I checked flights and the last ones that could get me to Seattle Sunday night seem to be in the 6:00-6:30 range, so not much wiggle room if the meet gets done around 3:00.
FYI, I just called and booked a room at the University Place Hotel, so there are still rooms available...unless I got the last one!
Kirk,
Don't stress yourself out. The last thing you need before you try to swim a quality 500 (especially if you are a bit tired from your earlier events) is to be pacing around the pool for several hours, since you showed up in time to swim your heat when you hoped it would go, rather than when it actually goes. My first Nationals I swam the 500 when it was the last event of the day, round about 6-7 pm. But, I had been hanging out at the pool just about all day, and warmed up a couple of times because I was an alternate on a couple of relays. I was blown, mentally as well as physically, well before my heat started.
Moreover, if you have a really terrific meet, sticking around is a great way to savor the moment. Find a couple of teammates who are also staying the night, do something touristy that evening. Trust me; it's alot more fun that getting all worked up about making a flight.
Matt
Yes, based on that time line, I'd suggest you stay over. Were you able to get the USMS rate at University Place? I'd heard they were all used up? I stayed there in 2000 and already have my reservation for '04, too. I usually swim the 500 at our state meet but never at nationals (I'm a sprinter and can't keep up with you distance guys after 200 yards). If your in one of the late heats, I'm guessing you sub 5:00. Never could come close to that one either. Good Luck. Hope to see you there.
Yes, I got the USMS rate. I was a little surprised they weren't all booked up. Hopefully I don't get there and they tell me they screwed up and there actually aren't any rooms!
My goal is to go sub 5:00. That was easy back in high school and college, but a good challenge for me now.
