On the night of May 29th, 2007, I was stuck in a hospital, unable to sit up. With a dull ache running through my abs I questioned if I would ever be able to swim fast again.
I was recovering from my second surgery in four months, all to fix the pelvic pain that had bothered me throughout 2006. Pushing your body has consequences.
Charles Swindoll once said, “Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” He was spot on.
Life can be a series of unfair challenges, stuff we didn’t choose or deserve. It often feels like things aren’t fair and can quickly deflate your spirits.
But if you can find a positive response, muster the motivation to keep moving forward, and refuse to give up on your dreams, I learned that there’s light at the end of the tunnel.
This weekend, I achieved my dream and became a National Champion.
The past four years have been an incredible journey, and my dream is just beginning. Taking a moment to reflect on where you’ve been can be amazing.
I appreciate the challenges and the incredible people who supported me. The entire process has helped me learn and grow.
I won both the 100 & 200 Breaststroke this weekend, set a new NCAA record in the 200, and received the 2011 Men’s Swimmer of the Year award.
Whitworth’s Rory Buck wins national 100-yard breaststroke
I know I have more in me, a lot more. I’m excited about what will happen next year.
The support I’ve received in the last week has been overwhelming. Thank you all for the love! Heading to South Africa on Saturday for World Championship Trials, I have no idea what I have left in the tank. Only time will tell. I’ll keep you all updated!
6 thoughts on “Today I Won A National Championship”
Glory Buck, I am so stoked for you right now. You have worked so hard to get here and you deserve it! My heart beat went crazy watching that video! Congratulations!!! Not going to be able to sleep now too excited for you. haha. Jason
Congrats on the great swim and your national championship! Good luck in the 200 and enjoy the experience.
Larry Brody (Matt Brody’s Dad)
Well done, Awee. So very proud of you.
Will be thinking of you tomorrow.
xxx
Was awesome to watch this unfold. Congrats on all the hard work and still somuch more to go! Keep it up.
Late though this is, CONGRATULATIONS Rory – I was with Jason last week – he is so excited for you ! – We are watching you and wishing you every success !
– take care and all the best for the SA trials !
Dave & Carole (Malawi)
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