R.I.P lanemate

I write this with a heavy heart and think to myself life can be so cruel at times. Often we read of masters swimmers whom for most part have lived long lives and have passed on. A few nights ago, I lost my lanemate to car accident while he was headed home from a swim meet. He was not in his adult life, but just 17 entering his senior year in high school. I was fortunate enough to train with him in our lane on the National team. His smile and laugh always lit up our lane even during the most intense sets. This young man had natural swimming talent and I always enjoyed watching him swim freestyle so effortlessly. His Junior year he had posted times of 21.x, 46.x and 141.x in the freestyles. He was an excellent student and was extremely active in the community giving his time and volunterring. He would call me the ole man and always harass me when I would have to leave practice early. There were many times he would call me ole man and I would challenge him to 100 fly. He always took me up on the offer and everytime I would just out touch him. I think he would call me old just so I would challenge him to another race. He was not one to give up at trying and did not like to loose a race. He and I had things in common, notely both being adopted. We would talk about that and I had offered to help find bio parents if he ever had the desire. What impressed me most was, his family worked to make ends meet but could not do any friviolous spending. He swam those times above the old fashion way, in just a speedo. I had asked him once before why he did not wear a techincal suit, and he said my family just can not afford to get me one of those suits. He never complained about it and just accepted it. I admired him in the pool but most certainly more what he stood for outside of the pool. Well Andrew, you won the race to the heavens and I am sure God has a special tech suit waiting just for you. Rest in peace my friend, you will be truely missed. Your lanemate and friend, Ole guy