April 5, 2002

Day three of Nationals started off beautiful, and ended even more exquisitely. It brought new definition to having fun and swimming at the same time. The meet was very exciting, with 2 swim-offs for 16^th seed. OCY made history at home, being the first relay to make it to consoles. The 400 free relay consisted of Madaline Heilman, 12, Carlee Carew, 17, Tara Gillies, 14 and Christie Raleigh, 14, and placed 14^th. It was great to stand in front of all the people and receive an award, and know that all the swimmers with you are just as happy and just as proud. Smiles were seen from 1^st place to 16^th place. It is just a great honor to be recognized for all the hours of practice and hard work that went into making this meet. It’s good to know that there are so many people out there just like you who want to do well and work hard for it every day. It’s an amazing feeling to walk into the pool area and see thousands of people who have the same main interest as you. It’s not often you walk into a room and find another swimmer. But this week, Ft. Lauderdale is crawling with us. Everywhere you look are pink wristbands and smiling swimmers. It’s truly a wonderful experience to be down here and know that all the hours in the pool paid off. I leave you with the words of Tim Conway, “This is only the beginning. . . .”

Carlee Carew and Joe Coronato

Ocean County YMCA Tigersharks

New Jersey