Lessons from the National Masters Swimming Gala: Camaraderie, Training, and Personal Growth

Yesterday, I had the privilege of representing Murang'a University of Technology at the National Masters Swimming Gala held at Kasarani Stadium. Participating in the event was a transformative experience that offered profound insights into personal, professional, and emotional growth. Competing in a 50m Olympic-sized pool for the first time, after training in a 25m pool, presented unique challenges and learning opportunities. The event reinforced the value of structured training, mentorship, resilience, and the power of motivation, principles that apply both in athletics and life.

The Power of Motivation from Family and Loved Ones

Beyond training and competition, one of the strongest forces that kept me going was the support and motivation from my family—my kids and my best friend and wife, Dorothy Maina . Knowing that they were cheering for me, believing in me, and encouraging me to push my limits gave me the strength to keep going.

Motivation is key in all aspects of life—whether in sports, career, or personal goals. Having people who believe in you even when you doubt yourself is priceless. Their words, their presence, and their unwavering support become the fuel that keeps us moving forward, even when the odds seem insurmountable.

Embracing Camaraderie and Lifelong Fitness

One of the most rewarding aspects of the event was the opportunity to reconnect with fellow athletes, many of whom are my age and still competing at a high level. Witnessing their dedication and performance underscored the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle. Their commitment serves as a testament to the fact that age is not a barrier but a milestone that can be celebrated through continuous physical activity and learning.

Beyond competition, the camaraderie in Masters Swimming fosters a sense of community. Just as in professional networks, surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals motivates, challenges, and inspires growth.

The Impact of Structured Coaching

A significant contributor to my performance was the guidance of my coach, Michelle, whose emphasis on perfecting strokes, refining technique, and maintaining discipline became evident during the races. Every competitive event exposes strengths and weaknesses, and proper coaching ensures incremental improvements that lead to long-term success.

Structured coaching is not just about physical conditioning; it includes:

? Breaking down complex movements into trainable components.

? Providing feedback and corrections to refine technique.

? Developing race strategies that optimize strengths and address weaknesses.

Without structured coaching, progress is slow and inconsistent. The same applies in professional life, where structured mentorship plays a crucial role in career growth.

Structured Coaching vs. Structured Mentorship

The principles behind structured coaching in sports and structured mentorship in professional development are remarkably similar. Both focus on guidance, refinement, and performance optimization.

In both cases, structured learning accelerates progress, helping individuals avoid common mistakes and focus on continuous improvement. Having a coach or mentor means leveraging their experience and knowledge to reach your full potential faster.

The Final Race: The True Meaning of Success

As the day drew to a close, my final event—the 50m Freestyle—took place at around 6 PM. I had gathered all my strength, applying everything I had been taught. The start was great, my strokes were well-coordinated, and I gave it my all.

But then, my counterparts took off with such velocity that before I knew it, I arrived a few seconds after the last person. Yes, I finished last.

At first, that reality weighed on me—until my name sake and age mate, Christopher Jobita, smiling, and said words that stuck with me long after the event:

"Prof, that was great. Now let's get out of the pool."

Great? The "fish" called my performance great?

Then it hit me—he was right. Because in life, it’s not always about winning; it’s about finishing what we start. Many never even make it to the starting block, and even more give up mid-race. But crossing the finish line, regardless of position, is a victory in itself.

That moment was a profound reminder that in swimming, in work, and in life:

? We must commit to what we start.

? We must push ourselves beyond our comfort zones.

? We must learn from every experience, whether we win or come last.

Looking Ahead

This experience has ignited a renewed commitment to both personal fitness and professional excellence. The lessons learned extend beyond the pool, offering a framework for approaching challenges with determination and a strategic mindset. As preparations begin for future competitions, the focus will be on holistic development, ensuring that growth in one area complements and enhances performance in others.

In conclusion, the National Masters Swimming Gala was more than just a sporting event—it was a catalyst for self-reflection, discipline, and growth. The camaraderie among participants, the benefits of structured coaching, and the insights gained from facing new challenges all contributed to a richer understanding of the interconnectedness of physical and professional development.

With motivation from my loved ones, a structured training plan, and a commitment to keep improving, the journey continues—both in the pool and in life.

#Swimming #ProfessionalGrowth #LifelongLearning #Motivation #Mentorship #Endurance #Training #Resilience