Learn

When do you leave for camp?
I leave on Sunday, July 11 and will be there until the 18th. That is the day they will choose the final two members for the Olympic Team.

How many hours a day will you be training?
I’m not sure how much we will be training, but there will be two meets while we are there; one on Tuesday and one on Thursday.

Have you ever been to a camp like this before?
There was a prep camp similar to this one for the 2003 World Championships. It’s essentially the same thing; we will all be doing routines to get on the team. Basically I just have to go in there and show them that I am ready to get the job done.

Were there training camps like this before the Games in Atlanta and Sydney?
There were camps, but the teams were already picked before they began, so we trained as a group and everyone knew they were already on the team.

How do you feel about your injuries now…going into camp?
Both feel fine. I don’t expect any problems going into camp with either my shoulder or my bicep.

Since a lot of your teammates will be at camp with you, will this ease your anxiety at all and make training more comfortable?
Having all the guys there will make it easier, I’m sure. Since I am familiar with the guys and the gym in Colorado Springs, I think the tension may be a little less. It’s obviously a high pressure situation, but all the guys really are pulling for each other and I know that will help.

What do you think the intensity level will be like at camp?
The intensity level will be high obviously because everyone wants to go out there and look good so they can get a spot on the team. I think for the four guys who are already on the team, it will be less stressful, but for those of us competing for those final two spots, I am sure the intensity level will be high.