At the “beginning” of my international swimming career eight years ago, I was telling myself that one day I would turn 24, and that I would be in the prime of my swimming. It was hard being a 16-year-old who was going to the 2000 Olympics because I was a 3rd year high school student who knew very little about himself or about life. Around this age of course you’re in the process of growing physically and mentally, both as a man and an athlete. I think confusion and insecurity are two good words to describe that period in history for me. The good thing is a lot has happened since I was 16 years old and all of those things have helped prepare me for the situation that I will be facing in two and a half months from now. I spent 5 years of my life at one of the greatest universities in the world and I went from 175 lbs in high school (79kg) to 215 lbs (97kg) and grew about 5 inches (12cm) in height! I have traveled around the world and raced hundreds of times, and I wont even bother to explain the amazing things I have learned along the way.

Well, that day has finally come, I’m finally 24 years old, and all I could say is, I’m a whole lot less confused than ever before! I’m stronger and smarter than ever before… I think its going to be a good year for me.

For those of you who have been to the upper Florida Keys, you know how uneventful this place can get. But, the nice thing is I’ve got a lot of great friends and teammates here doing this training camp with me, and I’m very fortunate to be able to spend my birthday with them… I think a barbeque and trip to a nightclub is a fine way to start this great age!