Well, we are now well into our season and all seems to be running smoothly. We have had two great swim meets to attend. I hope that you all have had the opportunity to participate. The meets at Duncan, and the meet in Victoria at Commonwealth pool, hosted by both Oak Bay and Sidney were very well run.
There were some outstanding swims from our more "seasoned" swimmers (those who are no longer novices), and some great swims by our new swimmers. It is very encouraging to see a large number of novices attending these meets and getting their first taste of what happens at a meet. This bodes well for our future in the region.
Our next meets occur in Courtenay and Nanaimo, both at outdoor pools. These are traditionally well attended, and a fun atmosphere is present at both. Courtenay is another timed finals meet, and Nanaimo is heats and finals. It is important for those swimmers to understand how a heats and finals meet runs, so that when you get to the Regional Championships, or to B & C Championships, you will know the procedure in marshalling so you don't miss your race.
The one "concern" at the meets so far is the number of stroke and turn officials. It is great to have lots of officials on deck so that we do not have to work all day on deck. The concern is that if the same officials work all day at these meets, we will get burned out, and then we are even shorter. Wayne Ralph and Jim Mattock have done a great job running clinics and mentoring new officials, but we need you on deck. If you feel unsure of what to do, don't be afraid to ask questions of any of the experienced people on deck. We will not have you officiating unless you are comfortable. Remember, the more of us that there is, the less time we need to spend on deck each day.
Provincials are coming up, so start thinking about whether you will attend or not, if you qualify. We need to know who is attending and who is not, at the completion of our Regional Championships. Provincials are in Abbotsford this year and promise to be a great meet to attend and a great experience for all.
See you on deck.
Bob Carter
