Races

My stomach twists and my mind races

Legs and knees jittering, hands shaking.

I am filled with anticipation. I smile despite the nerves.

I step up, rough grip plastic against my feet

Streamlined spandex, thick silicone, blue tinted

Goggles strung around my head.

I lean forward, breathing becoming shorter.

My heart thuds against my chest.

A loud beep

A flash of light

I throw myself forward.

The water is cold. My body feels numb as I move.

My lungs burn. Bubbles rise from my mouth and nose

I slowly exhale before breaking.

Water leaks into my mouth

The distinct taste of chlorine.

I move my arms and legs

Pumping water past me.

My muscles warm up. I move in rhythm.

Each breath I take is a sharp inhale

My head thrown back into the cold water

Holding each carefully

I taste chlorine every time.

A thick black line beneath me is my guide

It soon ends with a cross.

I watch the world spin and shoot forward.

Undulating through the water

My lungs scream for air.

This time my breathing is ragged,

Sharpness regained next round.

My muscles are alight

Fire burning them all.

I push forward.

The black line is back, showing me the way.

I follow it with dedication,

And soon find the end.

I drove forward, not breathing

Body screaming in protest.

My hand slams against the wall

A smack of hard material

Unfamiliar in the liquid environment.

My breath comes heavy

Desperate for oxygen.

The air is thick and heavy

My head, light and clear.

Cheers engulf me

Red numbers frozen with a time

And victory sweet in my mouth.