On 10 June, I competed in the 2024 Paris Olympic Trials in Brisbane for the 100m butterfly. Leading up to the trials, I was head-deep in the pool, training nine sessions a week and attending three Pilates sessions a week to prepare for this major meet. On the day of my event, I felt nervous chills running through my body. I arrived at the Chandler pool, stretched, saw my physio who accompanies us to major meets, warmed up in the pool, and did a few dives.
I got out my new Arena race suit and used baby powder to help put it on due to its tightness. It took me 10 minutes to put on by myself, resulting in a few blisters on my fingers. After a brief talk with my coach, I headed to marshalling to line up with the rest of my heat. Looking around, I saw eight-time world record holder Emma McKeon. Walking out to the blocks, I saw lights shining, heard music playing, and people cheering. Adrenaline rushed through my body as I got up on the block and raced. My final time was 1:04.23, not a personal best, but I was very proud of my race. Among 63 competitors, only 18 swimmers were under the age of 18. I placed 58th out of 63, a massive achievement.
After my race, I completed an 800m swim down at a nice, slow pace. Then, I went shopping as it was also my mother's birthday. Overall, it was a wonderful experience and an incredible opportunity to compete against current Olympic champions.
Saphron Davis
Year 11