Coming off knee surgery, Lori Melien’s performance at the Summer Nationals showed she’s returning to her top form.
Melien had a first-place finish in the 100 metre backstroke at the Nationals, her first competition since the operation.
“I am not quite 100 per cent yet,” Melien says, “but I’ve come back quite a way.”
Currently enjoying a break, she has been training vigorously with national team coach Chris Barry. After a three-week stint of high altitude training, Melien’s knee and endurance are peaking. “We had an eight-person medical team with us which drew blood and carefully monitored the swimmers. With high altitude training there is a greater chance of breaking down,” Melien says.
A determined competitor, Melien is pleased with her national results.
“There were certain events I felt good about. My 100 metre back (stroke) was consistent and I was surprised with my time in the 100 butterfly.” Melien decided to get off the crutches and begin training early to make the Summer Nationals. Despite doctor’s advice to wait two or three weeks, Melien pushed forward.
“I just didn’t have that much time. It was my knee and I knew just how far I could push it.”
Melien will soon begin training for the world championship trials, to be held in Montreal in mid-January.
