I have been checking times in the Nationals and, naturally, check my age group 65-69. Anyone notice what's happening there? Rick Colella is completely obliterating national records. Here's a few: 200 IM 2:03. 63; 100 IM 57.45; 100 *** 1:02.75. Let this sink in. He broke the 200 IM record by 13 seconds, the 100 IM by 3, the 100 *** by 5. )remains? perhaps the 400 IM this morning....the 200 fly? Look, whatever this dude wants to swim, he will win and set a new national record. It's like that. It should be said: Rick Colella is now the best Masters swimmer in the world. Period. These times are freakishly fast especially when you consider his age, SIXTY FIVE! They are incredibly fast times for people 15 years younger.
The thing is, from my brief encounters with Rick, he is an affable and easy going guy and a few years ago he was not close to this good. This is what happens when someone with an incredible amount of talent decides to bear down and focus. Sure, at our age (I am also 65), this includes some luck with health, relationships, and all the rest. But what Colella is doing in the water RIGHT NOW should be recognized as maybe the most impressive Masters swims ever done (and I am aware of the incredible swims by Rich Abrahams, Laura Val, Jim McConica and other great Masters swimmers). In my opinion Colella takes the crown. I am hoping he continues obliterating the record book!
He had amazing swims and not just Br - the 1&2IM, and 2Fr too - he was splitting 27-28s.
I think Allen Stark indicated a few years back that Rick still swims a very fast traditional "old school" Br and posted a video from one of the national meets. I wonder if in retirement he has modified his Br or kept his traditional stroke and kick? Seems like he is getting older but faster. The man!
No, was referring to another swimmer having an old style BR. Rick has a very good looking stroke as well as being unbelievably fast, although I must say, I rarely get to see it. if I am having a really good swim and it is a short race i may see his feet.
He had amazing swims and not just Br - the 1&2IM, and 2Fr too - he was splitting 27-28s.
I think Allen Stark indicated a few years back that Rick still swims a very fast traditional "old school" Br and posted a video from one of the national meets. I wonder if in retirement he has modified his Br or kept his traditional stroke and kick? Seems like he is getting older but faster. The man!
No, was referring to another swimmer having an old style BR. Rick has a very good looking stroke as well as being unbelievably fast, although I must say, I rarely get to see it. if I am having a really good swim and it is a short race i may see his feet.
