I posted this comment on the thread where Andy ran through 41 (and everyone bitched about his gates)...................................................(see below). In conjunction with a promotion for the new 200 Andy came out and did a clinic for us about a month ago. From my perspective he appeared to be in great physical shape (would you think otherwise?). Cycling seems to be his primary sport right now. I had never met him before and given his status within the ski community........didn't know what to expect with his coaching style. But I'll tell you - everyone at the clinic was very pleased with his coaching. Obviously everyone had a different set with him behind the boat but comments he made to almost everyone were "be more aggressive" and "as be just as aggressive on ball 5 and 6 as you are on ball one". My point is that Andy's success is not purely physical. He spoke repeatedly about mental imagery and preparedness. A columnist with the Austin paper did a story about the event: http://www.austin360.com/recreation/content/recreation/stories/2009/11/1116fitcity.html I especally like the comment about "the middle-aged men huddled on the boat dock". My wife enjoyed pointing out that nugget. ********************************************************************************************************************************************************** So to add to your question - what kind of coach is he and is he worth the money? - I would definitely say yes. Everyone got a set (6-8) with Andy and we all got to "hang" with the legend. Most coaches seem to focus on the gates (turn in, angle, whatever) OR they give you TOO many things to work on (and confuse you) whereas Andy gave each of us 1-2 pieces of good information - max. In most cases people got information or an observation that they had never been told or considered before. Personally I probably got more out of the clinic listening to him talk during the dry land portion of the clinic (see what I said in my previous comment about the mental aspect of Andy). The Aquaplex crowd in Austin has already talked about bringing him back. If you are the same Brent in Houston call me at 512-263-5165 if you want more info. Maybe we'll combine a clinic. I'll say this.............most of us (including myself) had a case of the nerves our first pass. After all - Andy "Freaking" Mapple is watching you ski.

No I am not the Houston Brent,I'm in Montreal! Thanks for your perspective on Andy's coaching.