I just saw this article "Swimmer’s death leaves open questions":
"Asked if he’d ever try the event, US swimmer Michael Phelps said, “Not a chance, no way. I won’t do open water.’’
I'm a bit surprised. Is he scared of the dangers of open water? Or is he technically competitive in open water? :rolleyes: Have there been any swimmers who won both pool medal and open-water medal in world events?
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Former Member
As for Phelps, he probably just doesn't have the appetite for it. To be great in open water, I think you really need to love it, and at least tolerate all the challenges that it entails (rough water, cold/hot temperatures, jellyfish, physical jostling). Speed and endurance are necessary but not sufficient.
He also gains on his turns/SDK off the wall and you don't get much opportunity for that in OW!
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Former Member
As for Phelps, he probably just doesn't have the appetite for it. To be great in open water, I think you really need to love it, and at least tolerate all the challenges that it entails (rough water, cold/hot temperatures, jellyfish, physical jostling). Speed and endurance are necessary but not sufficient.
He also gains on his turns/SDK off the wall and you don't get much opportunity for that in OW!
