Although it is only July 30th, still nine days before the start of the Olympics and seventeen days before the start of the women’s 400m, at 4:30am this morning my Olympic journey began. Today I travel to San Jose for team processing, stay there for the night, then travel to Beijing on the 31st. I’ll only be in Beijing for a night before flying to Dalian for our training camp!

I could never truly explain to anyone how exciting a time like this is in my life! After 2004, if felt like 2008 would never come, but not only is it here, the Olympics are right around the corner and I am qualified in my main event, the 400m!

After my last few meets in Europe I was only in Austin for six days…six days that Coach Hart, Bruce Johnson, my strength coach, and Wendy LeBlanc-Arbuckle, my Pilates Instructor, squeezed in as much as they could possibly have me do. It wasn’t hard though, as I had more motivation than ever. What could pull me to the finish line quicker, allow me to throw the bar up faster, or do more Pilates hundreds, than knowing the Olympics are my next meet. No more waiting, no more anticipating…The journey has begun.

I’m overwhelmed with different emotions excitement, anticipation, nerves, disbelief, but most importantly I’m HUNGRY! I’m so happy to have this opportunity in a year when I’m healthy and prepared. I am the American record holder, a two-time Golden League Jackpot winner, an Olympic and World Championship gold medal relayist, but still not an individual gold medalist! ?I know if I execute my race this could be my year and I’m thrilled!

I’ll be giving updates from China as often as I can, but if not my race days are Aug 16, 17, with the FINALS on the 19th…Don’t miss it!!!

Til’ next time San

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