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I step up on the block; the trying moment to come hastens my breath and my heart rate to the point where I shake. The swimmers underneath my block pant and their expressions show the fatigue as well as the joy or sadness from their event. The block a small tangible thing that only elevates you 2 feet feels as if it has elevated me higher. Muscles tense as us 8 make our final adjustments and pray before the official’s words. “ Take your mark.” says the official as I bend over to grip the front of the block that is rough and hurts my skin the more I grip it. I grip harder waiting for the beep only enduring the pains my hands feel. I wish to leave the block and enter the freezing pool, to take first place, to make my National cut. This is my final chance and this moment feels like an eternity. Beep, I’m in.