Notes from Berlin and the World Championships...

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I have been in Berlin for 11 days and finally Day 1 of the IAAF World Championships has begun. 

For the first time, I am at the World Championships and not competing.  It is certainly a strange feeling.  However, it is not one of sadness or disappointment.  Truthfully, I was not sure how I was going to feel being here and not competing.  I was a little worried but I am fine because I am quite busy.

  The two reasons that I am in Berlin are to serve as the USATF athlete liaison where my role is to assist the athletes whenever possbile. That includes running the athlete lounge and making sure they have snacks, water, and Poweraide.  We have the Wii, movies, magazines, movies, and of course computers.  I am having a good time hanging out with my friends and meeting new athletes and learning about all the different events.  I also now know every athletes favorite snack! Like for instance Jenny Barringer, who just qualified for the final of the women's steeple chase, loves Pringles, fruit snacks, and Nature Valley peanut granola bars! She also seems to eat a lot to be so little! : )

My second job here is working wth the IAAF as a host of a live talk show called IAAF Hour!  I interview IAAF Ambassadors who are "legends" of athletics as well as certain active athletes. Yesterday Wilson Kipketer was on the show and today I have Sergey Bubka and Allyson Felix. 

Even though I do miss competing I am happy that I can do more than just that and be of help to my friends.  I also love the fact that I do not have to worry about those pre race jitters that I hate so much.  I also do not have to worry about being mentally prepared for my race.  I am just relaxed and enjoying being normal finally!  I will keep you posted on daily activity from the World Championships and of course my talk show!!

Until next time...

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