This attempts to take the reader through an experience that may be
unfamiliar. Describing an activity from the point of view of the possible
'first timer' and how they could feel. The approach is presumptive and highly
subjective.
Sensuous Journey
Completely
focused, you stand looking towards the far end of the swimming pool
disappearing into the distance along the tunnel of vision created by the lane
floats. Competition always places you against your peers and the anticipation
and excitement feels almost overwhelming as you hear the crack of the starting
pistol. You push off with one foot from the stand, and taking a deep breath,
valiantly try to fly through the air like a dart cutting it with your
fingertips. Without thinking. Just a reflex, though falling towards the silent
and undisturbed water, slipping into it as smooth skin enters a silk glove.
Sensual and almost erotic.
You
glide underwater and after a few moments begin to rise. Breaking the surface in
a torrent of rushing water, the noises of the crowd become mixed with the sound
of the water being thrashed and without even taking a second breath you reach
ahead as far as you can to slide your hand into the still water, gently and
firmly curling your arm 'over the barrel' then sculling outwards before sending
your fingers downwards towards the floor. As your arm continues in the circular
motion you then push hard and fast behind you as you roll sideways already
reaching far ahead with your other arm ready for the next stroke all the time
working your legs hard, but still looking down at the centre-line of the pool
floor tiles.
In
what seems no more than a moment and several snatched, but efficient breaths,
you approach the other end. The tumble turn is automatic, and with your feet
together, you push hard against the wall as you rotate to face downwards again.
With a combined dolphin kick and entire body-wave, you snake several metres
under and through the water with only a rushing sound passing your ears. You
are momentarily aware of the sensation of absolute peace and completeness while
in the mayhem above you the disturbed water crashes around unseen. You then
surface to notice your arm move over your head as you take another rapid, yet
very controlled, breath. The end is in sight coming ever closer with each
stroke and you become aware of other moving shadows for the first time.
A
final touch and it's over.
Louis Brothnias 2008
(May)