Executing the Perfect Race – Harry Potter & Swimming
When the first Harry Potter book was released in 1997, no one could have predicted the incredible success the books and movies would achieve. Today, Harry Potter is the best-selling book series in history, with the last four setting records as the fastest-selling books ever. As we followed the adventures of Harry, Ron and Hermione, we learned a lot – about courage, friendship, loyalty and truth. Those lessons can be translated to the pool, and can even help us execute the perfect race.
“Their daring, nerve and chivalry set Gryffindor apart”
Being nervous before our races is normal, even expected. But when you get up on the blocks, waiting for the starter’s whistle or beep, you are taking a leap of faith. It takes courage to race. Harry Potter teaches us that everything we want is on the other side of fear. Ron had to face his fear of spiders to rescue Hermione in the Chamber of Secrets. Harry had to get over his fear of Dementors. Mrs. Weasley actually had to live her fear of losing a dear family member. It is in times of nervousness and fear that we find out who we really are – and it is no different in the swimming world. The only way that we will know where we stand is if we take that first step – getting on the blocks. Besides, Gryffindor reminds us to bring out our competitive and team spirit!
“Where those of wit and learning, will always find their kind”
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Come race day, it is crucial to have a plan for your race. While it may not always feel necessary to have that strategy, sometimes it can be the difference between a great swim and just missing a cut. As swimmers grow up, race execution becomes more and more important. Ravenclaws have a “ready mind.” They analyze all possible situations and outcomes. This is crucial for swimmers. It is in our best interest to analyze what we did well and what we did not so well after every practice and race. That way, when the championship meet rolls around, we know exactly what we have to do, both in terms of split times and race strategy.
“For Hufflepuff, hard workers were most worthy of admission”
Doesn’t that line perfectly sum up swimmers? Are we not patient, training for hours and hours only to race for a maximum of 15 minutes? Hufflepuff teaches us the importance of putting in our best effort every single day, whether or not we feel like it. We train hard every day in the pool and this hard work translates to success in meets and personal bests. The traits that Helga Hufflepuff looked for in her students – diligence, the ability to work hard, untiring commitment – are all traits that are shared by successful swimmers.
“… use any means to achieve their ends”
Photo Courtesy: Peter H. Bick
Slytherins are resourceful. They find ways to make things work. If our goggles fill up with water, or fall off on the dive, we know that we still have to finish. We must have prepared for every eventuality in practice – so that if something does not go our way at crunch time, we do not lose hope. Bob Bowman frequently presented scenarios to Michael Phelps that forced him to deal with the moment in an instant. Slytherins are also known for their determination and for being great leaders. Much of racing is a mental game, so determination, grit and sheer will power go a long way in improving our mental approach to races.
All in all, the four houses of the Potter wizarding world – Gryffindor, Ravenclaw, Hufflepuff and Slytherin – teach us how to construct a perfect race. From the training that goes into having a good race, to planning out a swim, to battling nerves before a race and preparing for any unforeseen circumstances, the Hogwarts houses all have traits that we as swimmers should try to emulate.
Such an interesting piece
I am proud to be your ” the mambu
THE SWIMMER ” – – though long time backLove amd best wishes. Congrats!
Creativity at its best!! This post is definitely one among my favourites. Great job!
That’s a wonderful article Proteeti! A big thank you to JK Rowling too!
Nice one Proteethi. After reading the first of the four houses, I was expecting some great examples in the remaining three as well. That unfortunately did not come by and actually I was a tad disappointed. I think your idea was marvelous, in terms of picking the best even if one perceived say Slytherin as a bit of a negative team. There are so many characters and it would have enriched the article and also refreshed the reader. But love the idea. Keep it coming.
What a nice and interesting comparison drawn out there….a very interesting and encouraging read. You go girl!!
A really nice article. Reminded me of the Harry Potter series. It’s creativity at its best and it’s True at the same time.
Amazing to see the two worlds you love come together – so beautifully!
Great one! Liked the way you applied Harry Potter characters and plot to a swimming race.
Wow! Great analysis
But just wdn’t trust a Slytherin?
Great comparison between the two world’s.Brilliantly analysed. Excellent
Brilliant analysis of the two world’s and portrayed in utter ease. Excellent read.
Liam Smith
Karen Allman !!
Jenny Adams
Thomas Ste-Marie