Stewart Hendrix heads to Cologne, Germany, this summer for the Gay Games in hopes of besting his bronze medal-winning performance in a relay at the 2006 Games in Chicago.
"I didn't really train as hard as I should have and was amazed at how fast some of the swimmers were [ in 2006 ] , Hendrix said. "I am hoping to drop some weight and put the time in the pool to get back to my high school or college times."
Hendrix, who lives in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood, will be 33 when he jumps in the pool this summer in Cologne.
"Besides the adventure of checking out a new city and meeting all the great people who are out and enjoying life, the Games are a real competition," Hendrix said. "The 2006 Games reminded me of college-level swimming. Some folks when talking about the Gay Games think it is just a small venue for us to meet and chat or do some light competition. But participating in the 2006 Games and seeing the level [ of ] athleticism brought to all the sports really made the Games something to keep me working out, now and hopefully for the rest of my life.
"Beside the overwhelming heat, I enjoyed the 2006 Games immensely. The Opening and Closing Ceremonies will be something I will never forget. I got to walk on the field at Soldier Field and Wrigley Field all within a week [ span ] . It is only as the Games wind down that you can sit back and reflect on the week. It was fast-paced, with friends all over the city competing. I remember gong to work, then rushing to the pool, swimming, and then [ having ] cocktails with friends, as much sleep as I could and then back at it again."
Here's more about Stewart Hendrix:
His partner is Bill Dodds, who also is a swimmer. They have been together for 8 years.
Graduated from Gilroy ( Calif. ) High School
Earned his B.S. ( in information decision systems ) from San Diego State University, and then his MBA ( in finance ) from DePaul
Hobbies: He studies for industry certifications: "It seems they never end."
Superstitions: "None really, but, if I see a seagull sitting on a light pole that I'm about to walk under, I always watch [ it ] ; the Chicago seagulls are out to get you."
Little-known fact: He was the homecoming king during his senior year in high school.
Greatest sporting accomplishment: "I would have to say [ winning ] the Bronze in the 200 Medley Relay at the 2006 Gay Games. It was not my fastest time, but I got it with my partner, and now we have the medals hanging up next to each other. It was one of those rare times you can accomplish something together."
Favorite pro sports team: Chicago Cubs
Favorite pro athlete: Michael Phelps or Jason Lezak, but Jason more so