Day 67 - Rest and Refit

Forcing myself to rest has been tougher than getting myself to the gym.  Fortunately, three days before the tournament I am stuck in bed nursing a bad cold.  I am also coping with some extended soreness in my hamstrings.  I refuse to make excuses, though.  If anything, the timing is extremely fortunate.  It forces me to give my muscles a much needed rest and it gives my mind a break from training.  Getting sick was inevitable given the length (about eleven weeks) and intensity of my training.  It was just a matter of time before my body reacted negatively.  Luckily, it happened a few days before and not during the tournament.

Despite my cold, I found time to drive to Fantasy Springs Casino in Indio where the fight is taking place to register our time.  This tournament is going to be no joke.  They are setting up four rings and professional lighting.  The seating is amphitheater-like and there is plenty.  According to the organizer, there should be enough in my weight class to fight Tuesday through Saturday (if I win each day).

After watching novice 152-pounders from across the nation on Youtube I doubt there are any that can dominate me.  Based on my training and experience, I should be able to hold my own against anyone if I stick to the game plan.  If anything, I wish the rounds were a full three minutes as opposed to two.  During the last few weeks I have come to realize that I am a slow starter.  I am concerned, particularly against a taller boxer, that I won't have enough time to impress the judges if he gets off early.  But that is the beauty of boxing.  Every opponent poses a different set of problems to unlock and challenges to overcome.  For now, I rest.  I rest and I wait.