SAN ANTONIO – Whatever medals the U.S. Olympic swim team brings home from the games in Rio, San Antonio can claim to at least have a small part in getting the athletes ready to perform at their highest level.
The Northside Swim Center is hosting the men's and women's Olympic teams for about a week and a half. The teams will be working out at the facility as they prepare for the games.
"Without question in my mind, this is the place we wanted to come for the training camp. So far, there isn't an athlete that is not happy," said Frank Busch, USA Swimming national team director.
A happy team makes for a productive team.
"Right now, I am seeing some guys put in some amazing work. This is the time to train hard, the time to give your best effort," said Jimmy Feigen, who made his second Olympic team.
Feigen is also from San Antonio, a graduate of Churchill High School, and is thrilled to be training in his hometown.
"What a fantastic thing to have happen, right? I got so lucky that this camp was here," Feigen said. "I got to spend two days with my family, go out and see nice San Antonio spots."
One of the potential problems they have put behind them so they can focus on gold is the Zika virus. Even with that cloud hanging over Rio de Janeiro, the team said they will be able to deal with it.
"We have a whole lot of rules and regulations we are going to follow to make sure we are going to stay healthy. And, ultimately, I don't think it is going to be a problem whatsoever," Feigen said.
They have made all sorts of preparations, including mosquito nets, repellents and blood tests for baseline analysis, if needed. Unlike some of the golfers, no one plans to stay home.
"This is a team. This is not about an individual choice. This is about representing the United States. There is no way in hell they’re going to not go," Busch said.
One of the reasons to be on the team is to compete alongside Michael Phelps, the most decorated swimmer in history.
"I think everyone on the team looks to Michael for strength,” Busch said. “They not only look at him as a veteran, but they look at him as someone who is, 'Wow, pinch me. I am on a team with Michael Phelps.’”