Finding your motivation is as easy as watching Ted Barnett swim laps at TSH!
” You have to keep at something, if you keep doing it eventually you will get it. It takes practice, practice, practice” Ted Barnett , TSH Member/ WCAX Super Senior and local swimmer.
Ted Barnett is not only an inspiration, he knows what he is talking about. Ted picked up swimming 10 years ago, since then he has been swimming in the open water at the Waterbury Reservior and has been building up his endurance and improving his stroke at The Swimming Hole in Stowe. ” I am more of an endurance swimmer, the water feels relaxing, I just keep going and going, I love the way my body feels and moves in the water, there are no restrictions, I can move freely” said Ted in a recent interview with TSH Executive Director, Charlotte Brynn.
Ted is a life long learner, he is the oldest Harvard graduate, he has downhill ski raced, served in world war 2 and practiced law. These are just a few of his achievements. Once he has something in his sights he applies himself with focus and works hard towards his goal. Ted has determination. Ted has drive. Ted inspires his fellow members, guests and all of us here at TSH.
So what’s the goal? Ted wants to improve his technique and get faster. ” Do you think it’s posible for me to get faster at my age?” Ted asked me in October in 2017. ” Yes Ted you can with instruction, dedication and the willingness to do your homework, that means practice, practice, practice ” Charlotte Brynn, TSH Executive Director.
So that’s what Ted has done! TSH, with the support of The Swimming Saves Lives Foundation, provided Ted free swim lessons. Since October last year Ted has been working on stretching himself and his stroke. Ted has lengthened his stroke and decreased the number of strokes he takes per lap. He has been working on rolling his body to both his left and right side. Finally he is proud of his strong push off the wall, yes Ted has mastered the streamline!
What is the take home? After reading this it is our hope and Ted’s that you are inspired to challenge yourself to pursue a goal, to continue to learn and extend yourself. Once you find something you are passionate about pursue it with focus, work hard and practice, practice, practice.
Last but not least swim to improve your health and overall wellness of mind and body! Swimming is easy on the joints, your body can move freely in the water, you have better focus after you swim and well….it just plain feels good. Thanks Ted for all the inspiration and words of wisdom you share with us all!
Charlotte Brynn, Executive Director of The Swimming Hole and Ted Barnett’s swim instructor.
To see Ted Barnett’s WCAX interview check out WCAX Channel 3 News on Thursday August 2nd at 6:40pm and/or Friday August 3rd at 6:40am.