Why does it appear many masters swimmers are taking USMS so seriously?
What's the difference between the typical "selfish train all day", "it's all about me" triathlete and a masters swimmer who seriously trains as hard as they can.... particularly to focus on setting masters records?
Seems like there is a growing parallel between triathletes and many masters swimmers these days.
Isn't it just "masters swimming" for health and fun in the end?
Does a masters record really mean that much?
Is this a good thing? ..... or a turn off for those who look on with amusement.
Parents
Former Member
I would never ever want to "side" with Mr. Negative....but I do see a little bit what he's saying. I agree that EVERY sport, job, hobby, etc has participants who are just plain over the top, to the point where something 'healthy' can turn very unhealthy quickly. I think the obssessed swimmers are far and few between....but I do agree that they're out there. I was at a meet with Susan Von der Lippe (who in my humble opinion is the greatest Masters Swimmer EVER....and probably one of the greatest people on the planet as well!!!!). We were talking to another swimmer who wasn't having her best meet. She's a talented swimmer, has some records, scores high at nationals, etc. She was very down on herself, and actually told us that her swimming success means more to her than her CHILDREN! Something is seriously wrong with that attitude. She said it honestly, and you could tell she absolutely meant it. She has THREE kids, by the way!!! To me, this is where a love for swimming crosses the line. Big time. Again, thankfully this isn't the norm from what I've seen....but it's sad to see the few swimmers who pour 100% of their identity and self - worth into Masters.
I would never ever want to "side" with Mr. Negative....but I do see a little bit what he's saying. I agree that EVERY sport, job, hobby, etc has participants who are just plain over the top, to the point where something 'healthy' can turn very unhealthy quickly. I think the obssessed swimmers are far and few between....but I do agree that they're out there. I was at a meet with Susan Von der Lippe (who in my humble opinion is the greatest Masters Swimmer EVER....and probably one of the greatest people on the planet as well!!!!). We were talking to another swimmer who wasn't having her best meet. She's a talented swimmer, has some records, scores high at nationals, etc. She was very down on herself, and actually told us that her swimming success means more to her than her CHILDREN! Something is seriously wrong with that attitude. She said it honestly, and you could tell she absolutely meant it. She has THREE kids, by the way!!! To me, this is where a love for swimming crosses the line. Big time. Again, thankfully this isn't the norm from what I've seen....but it's sad to see the few swimmers who pour 100% of their identity and self - worth into Masters.
