Water that stings when you break the surface
The loud buzz that makes your heart speed
The slick wall beneath your feet
Toes tensely gripping while your fingers wrap around the frosted handles
The only thing on your mind is what lap you’re on
The feeling of your out stretched fingers touching the wall
The relief you feel to realize you’re the first one to finish
Getting out of the pool while icy water drips from your skin tight on piece
Running to the hot showers
The burn of the hot water hitting your cold skin
Walking out in triumph with the gold backstroke medal around your clothed neck