Sunk in the pool
A defining moment in my parental life occurred today when one of my children defeated me in a physical contest for the first time.
I don’t mean paper-rock-scissors or something gymnastic either, but rather an actual test of speed, strength and endurance.
Admittedly I’ve never been a very good swimmer but it still came as a surprise when Michael beat me over 25 metres of backstroke in the Esperance pool.
I won the first heat. We were even after half the distance until I put in a big effort and pulled away. Kathleen, who was adjudicating, said Michael lost his stroke and became erratic towards the finish.
Second time round I couldn’t find the extra effort and he cruised to the finish line a length in front.
I can swim to save myself but that’s about it. Backstroke is the only effective method I know. I sink trying breaststroke and butterfly, while freestyle is something I can only manage with my head underwater, so the distance is relatively restricted.
I’m not very graceful with backstroke either, thrashing about like a reverse windmill. That’s not to detract from Michael’s achievement. He’s no Grant Hackett but he’s fairly accomplished for 11 years old.
In the contest of 11 versus 40 I would expect to hold the upper hand in athletic and cycling events for the time being.
My estimate is that he will beat me in sprints when it’s 13 v 42 and that I will surrender the distance crown at 15 v 44.
This of course is the natural phenomenon of youth over ageing and I shouldn’t feel aggrieved.
It’s something of a sharp reminder though which mixes pride in my son with the realisation that I am getting older and slower.
These articles might be of interest:
