NAC Master's Profile: Chris Ham

-       I joined the group a little over a year ago.  In the offseason, I will swim three times per week.  In season, I have been getting in the pool twice a week. 

-       As a swimmer, I had absolutely no experience.  Before I joined NAC Masters I was swimming in the doggie pool that is four feet deep, while the water aerobics class was going on and everyone in the pool was at least twice my age.  When I joined the group, I could not even make 25 yards without wanting to stop, throw up, rest for about 3 minutes, and repeat process.  As an athlete, I was a junior college baseball player and have been running ever since the end of my playing days. 

What motivates you to swim?

-       Personal challenges.  I have always been curious what my body can handle.  I have done the 5Ks, the half marathons, a marathon, 50 mile bike rides, etc.  Without a challenge, I will just go through the motions.  I had a buddy steer me toward triathlons, but I had never swam up to that point.  My first triathlon, I was the VERY LAST person out of the water.  He next race I did was much better.  I have a few more races scheduled this year, just looking forward to seeing what I can accomplish. 

-       A husband of over five years to Stephanie, an owner of two English Bulldogs (Beckham and Buddy), a Certified Athletic Trainer for the Vanderbilt Baseball team, a St. Louis Cardinal fan, Colts fan, craft beer lover, and beginner home brewer.

-       I can’t live without my sunglasses on my head.  I have to either be wearing them or have them on top of my head just in case. 

Favorite Coach Chris-ism:

-       After telling her that you don’t feel the best, “Just get in and try to stretch it out – it’ll be good for you”

-       “Almost there guys!!” (noted with about 2500 yds remaining on the board and in the middle of a set of 8x100 pace)