My stroke-rate was really slow this morning, but I was going as fast as I could. I knew the only way I could get it up tonight was to establish myself early. I knew the back end would hurt, but I just had to suck it up and so I tried to get out as far ahead as possible. Unfortunately, 2 people passed me in the last few strokes. Since I was out in front the whole way, I did have gold flashing before my eyes, but being third on the podium is better than fourth and being in the stands.