Halifax Swimming Club

Entries for Gala 2 are very pleasing. 104 swimmers have entered and some will be entering distances that might seem scary. 200m swims are essential for those swimmers who want to continue into Age Group competitions at County level (i.e.Yorkshires) and above in 50m pools. 100m events for 9, 10 and 11 year olds do not have a qualifying time. Entry will only be open to those swimmers with a qualifying time on the corresponding 200m event i.e. a swimmer qualifying for the 200m Backstroke will be eligible to enter the 100m Backstroke. As Gareth’s aim is for as many Elite and Junior Elite swimmers to enter the Yorkshire competitions, please take note

Changes to rules

As this year is a development year for our galas we will need to look at the rules and make adjustments as we start working with them. After gala 1 we found a few discrepancies that needed to be changed without affecting any swimmer’s opportunities for marking progress. There is no need for heat winners certificates as the main aim is for a swimmer to compete against his/her own times. Children can earn certificates in different ways. Some of the time differences for points need amendment. 6 points will be awarded for time differences up to the 10 point mark.

Long Term Athlete Development

If you want to know more about the principles behind training and competition for young Swimmers, the ASA have produced a booklet to help you to understand. I have a few copies which you may borrow or you can download it from the British Swimming website