I’ve just learned that I’ve been selected to represent the United States in a new swimming event. This event will be a demonstration sport in the next Olympics, in 2016 in Rio. The hope is that if the event “brings in the crowds,” when 2020 comes around (Tokyo!), the event will become a full Olympic event.

The U.S. Olympic Committee, in their letter to me asking me to be on the team, told me that my years of experience in Russia helped them in their decision process when choosing me. I must say that I experienced quite a bit in my almost three years in Russia. Many, many nights of practice and working out. So glad I’ve finally been recognized for my special abilities.

Below is a video of the Estonian Olympic try-outs for this awesome new swimming event. Check it out!