Busy day and a sad farewell

So much happened today, where to begin...

My rows today were focused on technique.  Part way through my total of 30km, I came to remember what I was told about each stroke...each is unique and should be treated as such.  How true that is!  The boat runs over the water differently, depending on the current or wind, and my balance may adjust differently from one stroke to the next.  Great rowers make it look easy, but it is hard I promise you.  I know of one great rower who said that he has only had one perfect stroke in his whole career of rowing (and he won 5 World Championships!) - you can guess who I'm talking about, and you can cheat if you want as he will be mentioned a bit later in this blog;)
There is so much focus that goes into each stroke, and that is why each stroke counts in a race.  I am continuing to learn how to better feel the water and let my boat do the work (how nice that would be:))..when you get that one perfect stroke, you feel like you are flying and when you look down at your stern you can see the water running beside the boat at a consistent speed without any hesitation to keep that momentum going.
Tomorrow I will apply what I felt today and do some higher rate pieces.
*Silly thought* - the whole "flying" comment made me think about this...the other day when I was rowing, I looked up and saw 3 hawks flying high above me and I thought to myself, "I wonder if they think my single sculling boat looks like a very big bird to them..." Ha!  How my mind can wander:S

Now to the big event of the day...the farewell party to a friend, role model, and my coach for the past 2 years.  Bernhard Stomporowski (Stompo) is moving on to a greater opportunity where he will coach down in California...not just anyone, but National Team athletes.  A great loss for the rowing club and myself, but a great opportunity for him.  This is not "good-bye" but it's "see you later"!  He taught me what hard work means, and helped me see my potential...now it's time for me to see it through and realize that potential - however far it takes me, I am a better person and athlete thanks to his leadership!

Thank you Stompo, and see you soon!