Gold medalist Chris Radomski describes his first place finish in the 100-yard butterfly at state.

Q: What was going through your mind when you won? How did it feel when you realized that you won?

A: “I was very proud that I had finally done what I had told myself years ago that I would do. It was almost a feeling of relief because I don’t think I’ve gone a day this season without looking [at] the school record and thinking about that last race at State to take everything I’ve worked for. However, when I finished my race and looked up, I had wished [that] I had ended my last race with a personal best and was a little disappointed I didn’t break my regional record. I really wanted to go 48 [seconds], but I came in and did what I needed to do to get it done. So no regrets.”

Q: What motivated you to get to the top spot and win?

A: “It wasn’t a big deal, but this year I had worked hard to improve my 50 freestyle, which in swim is equal to the 100m dash. Last year, I barely missed call-ups for State in that event, so it was a good feeling to be able to score another 10 or so points along with the 20 [from the 100 fly] for the team with that event after placing 5th in one of the competitive events there are. I guess what motivated me was to get the most points for our team.”

Q: How nerve wracking was the race and State in general?

A: “I was a little surprised going into State seeded 2 seconds [ahead] with my school record. After that, I knew everyone would be a little surprised about my region time because last year I came eighth. While the people who got first and second [last year], expected this to be their year to place first and second. It felt pretty good to kind of be the dark horse this year in that event. But there was a lot of pressure because that was the first race this whole year where anyone was going to be challenging me.”

Q: Do you have any pre-race superstitions or rituals? If so, what are they?

A: “My only pre-race ritual is to eat a small amount of fruit to stay fueled. When my nerves get to me, I also remind myself that I’ve done this a thousand times before. As long as I get up on the block and do my absolute best and try my hardest, that’s all I can do.”

Q: Before State, At what point in your swimming career did you realize that you could win the 100 fly?

A: “This year at the TISCA meet when I broke former state champion’s, Matt Cox, pool and meet record, I realized tht goals might become reality this year. It really got me more motivated for the season and made me want to push harder.”