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.
I have always struggled with this. I think if it's easy to stay on the person's feet, they are probably too slow. You want to be pushing a bit to try to stay up with them. Someone who passes you is a good candidate. But maybe others have better ideas about this.
I should add: if you're a top swimmer and know you're drafting off another top swimmer, then I think your strategy is different. You pace yourself and try to pass the person near the end. For someone like me, though, who has no chance of winning, I'm trying to get the best time I can. I think. (As I said above, I am conflicted about whether I really want to be doing this).
I have always struggled with this. I think if it's easy to stay on the person's feet, they are probably too slow. You want to be pushing a bit to try to stay up with them. Someone who passes you is a good candidate. But maybe others have better ideas about this.
I should add: if you're a top swimmer and know you're drafting off another top swimmer, then I think your strategy is different. You pace yourself and try to pass the person near the end. For someone like me, though, who has no chance of winning, I'm trying to get the best time I can. I think. (As I said above, I am conflicted about whether I really want to be doing this).
