Wow, is it really time for our Regional Championships already? It seems like the season just started. I would like to thank the Campbell River Club for another great meet on the Island. Despite the hot weather, things went quite smoothly and I believe that all the swimmers and parents had a great time. Thanks also to the volunteers, from the on deck officials to the lane timers and place judges. Once again, the Air Band Competition was a success, playing to a packed house! We were even blessed with the attendance of Jon Cain, the Executive Director of the BCSSA. I think that he was totally impressed with not only this meet, but with how things seem to be going throughout the entire region. Many thanks to all the clubs for a great season so far.
Now, on to Regional's. It is imperative that all of your entries are in on time. They are due on Tuesday, August 4th. In the original meet package it is listed as Tuesday August 5th; please note that it is Tuesday, but the 4th. If you are late with your entries, you risk not being able to swim. Also, swimmers, parents and coaches need to know by the scratch meeting on Sunday evening, whether the swimmers that qualified are attending the Provincial Championships in Abbotsford. There is no going back once the scratch meeting is done if you say that you are not attending.
As far as Provincials go, we will be sending out an email to all clubs next week asking them to canvas their parents as to if they are going to attend if their swimmer qualifies. We will then be in constant contact with the clubs to ensure that we fulfill our regional duties at the meet. As I have stated in the past, we are responsible for the crash desk are this year. We will be looking at 2-3 hour shifts from the start of each day until completion. If you are attending the meet and don't know about crashing, we will make sure that you get training, whether before the meet or during the meet. So please volunteer when the issue comes up.
Also at Regional's, we hold our AGM. If you want to attend, it will take place at the break between heats and finals on Saturday. If you would like to get involved with the region, please feel free, we are always looking for people who are committed to our organization. Many of the people holding positions on the Regional Executive have been there for many years and will likely be leaving in the near future, so we will need people to replace them. Most positions are not a lot of work, so don't be shy!
In closing, I hope to see you on deck at either Regional's or at B&C Regional's on Saltspring. This promises to be a great event and a wonderful way for most of our swimmers to end their season.
Bob
