Indiana University Athletics
Olympic Diaries (8-24-04)
8/24/2004 12:00:00 AM | Women's Swimming and Diving
August 24, 2004
Hoosier Diving Olympic Diaries
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In the synchro event, the Hoosier duo of Cardinell and Hildebrand faltered on their first dive, but rebounded to finish the competition strong. The pair took seventh overall and had it not been for a missed first dive, the duo would have competed for a bronze medal according to Indiana head diving coach Dr. Jeff Huber.
Hildebrand did something she hadn’t in 2000 at the 2004 Games, she advanced to the finals of the 10-meter platform. In 2000, Hildebrand finished 13th in the semifinals where only the top 12 go to the finals. She used a pair good dives on her final two attempts of the semifinals to advance to the finals in the Athens Games. She ended up taking 10th overall in the event.
Former Hoosier National Champion Kimiko (Hirai) Soldati has yet to compete in Athens. She will compete individually in the three-meter springboard on Aug. 25-26.
Cardinell, who graduated in the spring and has one year of eligibility remaining, and Hildebrand train with the Indiana diving program and six-time U.S. National Diving Coach of the Year Dr. Jeff Huber. Huber is also serving as an assistant U.S. Olympic Diving Coach at the Athens Games.
Here is a look at the diary from Hildebrand and Cardinell. IUHOOSIERS.COM will continue updates on the Hoosier trio at the Olympic Games.
The Olympic Diary of Sara Hildebrand
Courtesy of sarahildebrand.com
“Where do I even begin? Well, after prelims, I felt that I did pretty well. I did what I wanted to - stayed steady and did five dives on my head. I advanced into semifinals. So all I wanted to do was my four easy dives like I do everyday in practice. Nothing new or different. Well, I did three of those dives normal (which went very well) but one of those dives (my second one) did not go so well. After my dives were done, I really thought I was done - no finals for me. I will admit I spent a little time crying by myself, but the cameraman found me (and I was not going to cry on TV like that). Some teammates found me quickly there after and told me that I was in. I didn't know what to think. Here I was certain that I was out - I missed a dive, and they are saying I was in. I am not sure how many times I asked "Are you sure?" I was not reassured of this final result until just about everyone on the team came to me to congratulate me. WOW!! I really made the finals!! My dream is coming true. At this point all I wanted was for my dream to come and make the finals so that I get another chance. I fought so hard to come back. I just missed finals in Sydney and wanted to prove to myself that I could do this, even if I don't have the history of success behind me (on platform). So what, I can do it with out it. I have faith and strength and confidence in myself - that is all I need.”
The Olympic Diary of Cassandra Cardinell
“Wow what an experience! I have finished my Olympic competition and it was unforgettable. I was ready to compete and very excited to go out there and show the world what I was capable of. Unfortunately I was a little too excited and ended up having a rough first dive. I was doing a front dive off 10 meters and I went after the dive too much and ended up flying over. Oops! Besides that mishap, Sara and I finished up the competition strong. Although we did not place as well as we would have liked because of the first dive, we had a great time. I have never been one to enjoy competing. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE diving, but I hate competing. But this competition was the first time that I can honestly say that I had so much fun! I didn't want to stress out about this competition and end up regretting it, so I went into it with the mentality to have fun, give it my all, and whatever happens I know I have no regrets. And I did all of those, although I wish I could do my first dive over, but we all mess up at times. This competition has really motivated me and I'm ready to get back to Bloomington to start training again. I will be taking time off from diving for the next couple weeks to rest up. I have been spending the last few days with my family and boyfriend seeing different events, sights, and Greek Islands. Greece has such a rich history that there are endless amounts of things to see and do. Although it is really hot here so being outside all day can be very draining. The women's 10 meter finals are tonight, and hopefully you know that my synchro partner and former IU diver, Sara Hildebrand, will be competing in it. I can't wait to go out there and cheer her on! She has been doing an amazing job her and I could not be more proud of her. Anyways, I have been having a great time here. I guess that's all for now.”
Here is a look at the competition schedule:
Three-meter Springboard • August 25-26
TV: NBC • 8:00 p.m. - 12:00 p.m. EST (both days)
Thursday, August 13
Thursday, August 13
Wednesday, August 12
Wednesday, August 12