I did an open water swim over the weekend and drafted for almost the entire race (Donner Lake Swim - 2.7 miles). I'm a good drafter and never touch feet; however, the person surely knew I was there and I wonder if they found me annoying. I'm also having a bit of trouble celebrating my time, feeling like I "cheated" (even knowing that it's perfectly legal and accepted). Maybe a better way of putting it is to say that I'm not sure if I could get that time on my own, and so I don't feel quite the same sense of accomplishment. On the other hand, trying to keep up with my draftee did spur me to swim faster and also kept me more mentally focused than usual, which was nice. So, I guess I am looking for how to sort things out for myself, and curious how others think about it.
So, I've started to think that there is yet another option for my poll: drafting as a learning experience. I've learned that I can go faster than I thought I could and stay focused more than I thought I could. Now I just need to learn to do those things without someone in front of me. :-)
So, I've started to think that there is yet another option for my poll: drafting as a learning experience. I've learned that I can go faster than I thought I could and stay focused more than I thought I could. Now I just need to learn to do those things without someone in front of me. :-)