I’ve had the pleasure of swimming in some extraordinary pools around the world, like this one at Cabo Azul Resort in in Cabo San Lucas.
Had an errant crab as a lane mate in this pool at Likuliku Lagoon Resort’s pool in Fiji.
And swimming under bridges and waterfalls at The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club Residences Kapalua Bay’s pool was a blast on Maui. The swimming pool closest to my heart, though, is the Van Nuys Sherman Oaks Pool (VNSO), a member of Los Angeles Parks and Recreation.
The days that give me a special thrill are those when a session with Southern California Aquatics (SCAQ) is underway. What is SCAQ? The largest Masters swimming program in the United States. All levels of swimmers are welcome from perpetual beginners like me to Olympians like SCAQ’s founders, Clay Evans and Bonnie Adair.
Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of swimming at numerous Los Angeles pools that host SCAQ workouts. That’s easy to do with 50 workouts offered per week, be they in the morning, afternoon or evening. Have to admit, I’m partial to VNSO. And though there may not be cabanas with attendants proffering cocktails, there are other cool things such as pool covers that keep the water toasty for morning swims…
Lane markers and accoutrements….
Rules so the partying doesn’t get out of hand…
And excellent toys, er, tools for workouts.
It’s even possible to stumble upon inlaid sculptures in the concrete.
My favorite part of SCAQ workouts — the people. Like the best lane mate in the world — Arnie! He’s got the encouragement thing down pat. And if you’re in the mood to talk movies or politics, he’s your man. Not that we’re talking, mind you. We’re working! Really, we are.
All SCAQ members are friendly and always ready to share a lane and lend support.
Here I am joining this Sunday’s throng. It’s been a while due to my travel schedule. Felt just like coming home, though. Especially when catching up with old friends like Craig and Karina.
Then there’s our fearless leader, Dimitri. He’s one of SCAQ’s many outstanding coaches. And patience, yep, he’s got that.
Particularly when it comes to helping swimmers perfect their strokes (or flip turns).
Or to learn how to use the clock when interval training.
Said clock is my nemesis! Dimitri doesn’t roll his eyes when my math skills get the best of me. He helps me figure it out. You’re a saint, Dimitri.
A SCAQ member’s favorite two words — “Ready… Go!”
When I’m swimming laps, whether it be during interval training or stroke clinics, I often forget where I am. Lulled by the brilliant blue water, I’m in Fiji, Malaysia, Bora Bora or Hawaii. And if you can escape to those countries a few times a week via a workout, you’re living Life on a Silver Platter indeed.
To learn more about SCAQ or to find scheduled sessions near you visit http://www.swim.net/scaq.cfm.
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Great blog, Bekah, but it makes me feel bummed that I skipped today’s workout! Maybe I’ll go tonight. See you in the drink!
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