This weekend was our Pacific Masters Championships. It was a close battle between WCM and USF and I don't know who won at this very moment. I don't care.
You see, I left right before the 1000 today (the last event) right after the last relays. I watched some great swims today. Amazing swims. My friend Brendon swam a 2:03 200 fly and really hit his taper (as he's not going to Nationals)- we were teasing about how he does really well the week after a tapered meet. He seemed to finally figure it out this time.
My friend Stephen called me tonight and told me that Brendon also had a great 1000, was warming down, had a heart attack and died. He was 35. I was stunned. I've been crying since then trying to make sense of it all. It doesn't make sense.
I called some other friends and no one else can believe it either. Suddenly, the meet doesn't matter, swimming doesn't matter, what matters is that we lost a really great guy today. He was always so happy, funny, and loved to tell jokes. He was really good natured and fun to be around. I will miss him terribly.
Karen we love you! That's what makes masters swimming so great. You always know that someone has your back and will give a shoulder without a second thought.
If there's anything I can do, let me know. We're all here for you!
Originally posted by Karen Duggan
You're not in my age group right? Sneak away! I've been lobbying for more events at our champs...
Not only should we be able to swim more events (I'd like to do all!) but I think we also need to add events like 500,1000, and 1650s of backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly. Why should freestyle get all the distances?
Thanks, Bill. I'm sure Kerry is aware of the endowment fund but I'll mention it to him. I've called him a couple of times and he said a lot of people have many good ideas on how to remember Brendon.
The membership of USMS is truly inspirational and supportive. :)
Karen,
I'm so sorry for your loss. The death of a friend is especially hard when it is unexpected. My thoughts and prayers are with you, Brandon's family and friends. I hope you find comfort in your memories of his happy, funny and good natured personality. It sounds like he was a great guy. Take care of yourself while you grieve this loss and know we are thinking about you!! I'm sending you a big hug!
