Olympic Trial Experiences With Lyndsay DePaul
Irvine, Calif. -- UCIrvineSports.com talked to UC Irvine junior-to-be Lyndsay DePaul about her experiences at the 2008 U.S. Swimming Olympic Trials. DePaul qualified for the finals of the 200-meter butterfly where she finished seventh (2:11.20). DePaul, who won three Big West titles in 2008, competed at the NCAA Championships in the 200 fly and 400 IM.
UCIrvineSports.com: What was it like to compete in the finals of the 200-meter butterfly for a spot on the U.S. Olympic Team?
DePaul: Nerve-racking, fun, and unexpected! Really though. I didn't expect myself to make semifinals, let alone finals! After I qualified for semis I tried taking a nap like I do between sessions at every swim meet, but my heart was pounding and I just could not fall asleep. I eventually called my dad in frustration to hopefully calm me down. He convinced me that I belonged there and told me to just be myself and have fun. His advice helped me earn a best time at semifinals. Competing in finals was absolutely amazing. All my nerves finally disappeared and I was ready to soak up the energy provided by the 14,000 fans at the Qwest Center.
UCIrvineSports.com: What will you remember the most from your experiences at the trials in Omaha?
DePaul: I will remember the hearts broken, the fans, the dreams achieved, the security, and the crazy weather! Luckily we lived through a flash flood and multiple tornadoes (which apparently aren't too uncommon in other states). Unfortunately, the Qwest Center is going to need a few band-aids to recover from it.
UCIrvineSports.com: With this experience behind you, do you feel you are better prepared to make a run at the 2012 Games in London?
DePaul: I feel like I will be better prepared mentally at the 2012 trials, but I cannot know how I will be prepared physically until the time comes.
Hopefully my body loves the sport as much as I do and can keep going strong for another 4 years... at least!
UCIrvineSports.com: You're heading to Minneapolis soon for the U.S. Open. What will it take for you to earn a spot on the US World University Games team?
DePaul: It takes a gold medal to make the World University Games team, which probably means a personal best time. I have been working hard since Olympic Trials so hopefully it happens!
UCIrvineSports.com: What are your goals for this upcoming swim season at UCI?
DePaul: I would like to help and support my team to a Big West Conference Championship! Additionally, I would like to welcome the new recruits this fall by making them feel comfortable and an important part of the swim team. I hope to lead by example and encourage them to believe in themselves that their extra hard work, sacrifices and effort will come back around in rewards that we all share in and take great pride in together.
