Team USA

Things always seem to come together when you least except it. What a great time we had on our 24hr road trip as a relay team. The logistics weren't perfect but allowed us a opportunity to bond because of it.
We left Berlin Friday around 5pm with 16 athletes and about the same number of various staff members on a coach bus with no air in 80 degree weather. We arrived at the hotel only to discover there was no air there either. No exceptions were made for those of us who have become accustomed to having our own room based on accomplishments. We had to pile in and grin and bare it. As it turned out I think it was just the reminder we needed and served to bring us all together getting to know the 3 newcomers and help them feel welcome.
 On Saturday, travel back to berlin post race had us a bit worked up when we arrived at the track but we managed to transition into competition mode and motivate each other into excitement as the 8 of us prepared to run. We didn't split into 2 groups of four we stuck together, chatted and laughed together, prayed together and went on the track properly warmed up yet relaxed and nochalant as we approached our spots. I don't think we were expecting anything spectacular just to get out there and get comfortable giving the stick to one another. Well we ran 41.58 and the world record is 41.32. I don't think I have to explain the implications of such a time.  We finished up with everything around 630 but the bus was not arriving to pick us up until 830 so another opportunity for socializing as a group was born and we made the most of it and kept the party going on the 1.5hr bus ride back. Definitely one of the best team experiences I have had as a member of a national team.