Hello again, as I write this we are halfway through the third day of what has been one of the most exciting national trials ever. There of course were the great world record swims of Steph Rice, Emily Seebohm, Sophie Edington and Matthew Cowdrey. On top of these great swims there has been a really big improvement in all round depth as well as quite a few national records set.

For me personally, it has been a very satisfying week so far. I have said all along that this week was not about times but about finishing first or second so you are on the team. I had waited four years for last night, a chance to finally redeem myself for missing the Olympics in Athens. No matter what I had done at the world championships or Commonwealth Games it wasn't until last night that I could really prove myself.

The swim was far from perfect, but the way I tackled the race was very pleasing. It was also really nice to do a best time and get my Australian record back, it showed that the training I had been doing is working. My final time of 1.00.04 placed me around 7^th fastest all time, it would have been fantastic to break the minute but that can wait for another time.

It is such a great relief to be on the team so early on the week. The pressure is off now, so I can really enjoy the rest of the swimming as well as my last few races. My 200m starts on Tuesday, which is the only selection event I have left, so after that I can just sit back and enjoy watching my fellow team mates make the team. I have been lucky enough to have my family here for the week, which has been great for all involved. They have all been a massive part of my journey, especially my brother who has always been such an inspiration. I would like to think I can look after myself now but like so many swimmers we rely on our family support for so many years when we are starting off in the sport.

Well that about wraps it up from this happy swimmer. With five more nights of trials there is still plenty great swimming to come, with plenty of spots still up for grabs on the team.