Paul Hamm Olympics Diary: July 9, 2004

The training camp is taking place in Colorado Springs, correct? When do you leave for the training camp?
We leave this Sunday for the training camp.
Have you spent a lot of time at the Training Center in the past?
We usually have about two to three camps per year that are each a week long, so I’ve been there quite a few times.
Since a lot of your teammates will be at camp with you (Raj, Morgan and Blaine), will this help ease your nerves and make training more relaxing for you?
Yes, for the guys who are already on team it will definitely be less stressful. It would be great if team were announced prior to camp because then we could focus on preparing for the Games as a team. Instead we will be worrying about who will make the team. We normally wouldn’t do as many routines at this time, but since there will be competition at camp, we will be doing more routines.
Do you know what this camp is going to be like? (As far as scheduling, training times, etc.)
We did get a schedule explaining what’s going on, but it varies between the guys. Most likely we will have two workouts a day for the majority of the week. We may have a light day here and there.
Have you ever been to camp like this before? For example, prior to the Olympic Games in Sydney?
Before Sydney we did have a camp in San Diego, but it was right before we left. It’s different this time because it is not as close to the time we leave for Athens. We usually also have a preparation camp prior to World Championships. However, these were all different because at those camps, the team was already named. This will be different because people will be focused on who will make the team. There won’t be much time to bond with our teammates at camp because when the final two are named, the camp will almost be over.
Do you think you will you have any spare time while you are there? If so, do you have anything you want to do?
We’re staying at a resort so that is something new. Normally we stay at the Training Center complex. It sounds like a nice resort, so we’ll probably have a pool, hot tub etc. We may not have time to see the area, but I’ve seen it quite a bit, so that’s okay.
Is there anything in particular you are looking forward to accomplishing while at camp?
I will be focused on trying to get used to the Olympic equipment. The training center purchased some of the same equipment that will be used in Athens, so it will be good to get a feel for it and used to it prior to going over there.
What do you think the intensity level will be like at camp?
For the majority of guys the camp will be very stressful and feel like another competition. Most of them will have the same mind set that they had at Championships and Trials.









