To Gaze at the Results

Water glides along my body,
As I resist the restrictions 
That it puts on me.
I propel my legs and arms,
Pulling myself forward,
Fighting the substance
That makes be weightless,
But still makes my muscles ache.
The burn and sting,
Wanting to stop.
I don’t let them,
Requiring myself to finish the race,
To plant my hands on the wall,
And look up at the scoreboard.
To gaze at the results
And feel the satisfaction
Of completing the task.
I barely hear the cheering 
That echoes through the air.
My mind is completely focused
On getting my best time.
I force my limbs and core to work harder,
Wanting a chance to win.