Does anyone know a thread or a website where I could get a better idea of what older and not former competitively trained swimmers are doing time-wise?
It seems to always be the winning times which are posted. I was looking at the USA Swimming Times, at the oldest age (50) and the lowest category (B) and the guy was STILL doing a 20min 1650!!
I'm 58, 6'1" (6'4" arm span) 180lbs. And I'm forever stuck at a 29-30 minute mile.
I know that if I was training with Masters I would do better, but they are too far away. (Money is being raised for a YMCA, so that could change)
I'd love to know what average times older swimmers who have taken up swimming AFTER college (no previous team experience), but have a passion for the sport are achieving.
Thanks
It is all a matter of perspective. You are now ranked in the top 20 for your age group. Congratulations!
I am one of those former athletes, but still swim because I love the sport and enjoy socializing with all sorts of people. I have found that some of the most ardent competitors took up the sport late in life, whereas I don't need to prove anything to anyone but me. I really am thrilled to hear a 60 something say that they have just swum a PR for some event. I remember that all of those are far behind me and am a little jealous that they get to enjoy the thrill of their new accomplishments.
OK, so your 29-30 minute mile puts you in the top 20, how much do you have to shave off to get into the top 10? 15? Just beat the guy in front of you? Small steps still get you to your destination.
As a side note, I used to hear a song about Irving, the 142nd fastest gun in the west. In the song, he was not trying to beat number one, he was gunning for #143!
It is all a matter of perspective. You are now ranked in the top 20 for your age group. Congratulations!
I am one of those former athletes, but still swim because I love the sport and enjoy socializing with all sorts of people. I have found that some of the most ardent competitors took up the sport late in life, whereas I don't need to prove anything to anyone but me. I really am thrilled to hear a 60 something say that they have just swum a PR for some event. I remember that all of those are far behind me and am a little jealous that they get to enjoy the thrill of their new accomplishments.
OK, so your 29-30 minute mile puts you in the top 20, how much do you have to shave off to get into the top 10? 15? Just beat the guy in front of you? Small steps still get you to your destination.
As a side note, I used to hear a song about Irving, the 142nd fastest gun in the west. In the song, he was not trying to beat number one, he was gunning for #143!
