First 2K-Test Fear

Photo by Lucie Webb

By Aimee Ramos

Novice Rower

I attended my first LBS Rowing practice Friday, September 4, after attending orientation earlier in the week. I remember it clearly because I was excited and nervous at the same time…also, because it was circled in bright colors in my planner! After attending every practice – minus a couple for work – came our first 2k-erg test!

We were informed that there was no real way to prepare for it, that we “basically just had to get through it…” We were advised to sleep and to eat properly. I was nervous but mostly excited; I wanted to see what I had in me!

The real nerves kicked in on the actual day of the test! When we had less that five minutes, it was complete chaos inside me. I could not sit still! We tried talking to each other to see if the nerves would calm down, but reflecting back on those last minutes, I imagine we were like ants scattered about, not knowing what to do or where to go after our ant line had been disturbed. We were all filled with adrenaline and could not stop our legs from bouncing! I knew I had to calm down in order to put my energy to good use. I placed my elbows on my knees, put my head down and tried to “put my head in the game.” I believe this is very important – to take a moment to reflect and set your goals.

It was difficult! I’m glad I got through it. I was scared of pushing too hard and then dying out too soon. Although I gave it my all, I feel as if that fear kept me from doing better. I believe I have more. Next time, I will not let my nerves get the best of me! I will push myself more.

Like a fellow teammate said, “I can and I will!” I know for sure that I wouldn’t have been able to get through it without my teammates yelling encouragements. I had someone with me the whole time, letting me know that I had it in me and to not let myself down! I look forward to more yelling. I know that they will be there for me, and I will be there for them whenever they need me. We are all a team!

I’ve learned that I have a newfound passion. I plan on giving it my all and learning all that I can. That being said, I know that I have a lot to learn. I learn something new every single day! I don’t know how I came to be informed of LBS Rowing just by turning my head at the right moment and seeing a flyer, and I don’t know why, but I am so glad I did! Row Beach!