Meet Guide for Competitive Swimming
Competitive swimming meets are divided into several levels, each catering to swimmers of varying abilities and goals. Understanding these levels and the types of meets can help swimmers and parents navigate the competition calendar.
Levels of Open Meets
- Level 1: These are long course (50m pool) meets aimed at swimmers targeting Regional and National Qualifying Times. You’ll often see high-level and international swimmers at these events. Age Group and Elite squad swimmers are encouraged to enter these meets.
- Level 2: The highest level of short course (25m pool) meets, requiring lower qualifying times. These are also focused on swimmers aiming for Regional and National Qualifying Times, as well as those looking to gain experience racing in long course settings. Swimmers at this level are encouraged to participate.
- Level 3: These meets can be short course or long course and are run throughout the year, including our own club’s Open Meet. They typically have easier qualifying times, and some don’t have lower cut-off times. These meets are ideal for swimmers aiming for County and Regional Qualifying Times.
- Level 4: These lower-level meets include Club Championships and Novice Open Meets and usually have no qualifying times. They are a great introduction to competitive swimming.
Other Meet Types
- County Championships: Held once a year over three weekends in January for clubs in the Middlesex County area. Swimmers must achieve County Qualifying Times to compete.
- Regional Championships: Divided into Age Group Championships (for younger swimmers) and Youth Group Championships (for older swimmers). Age Group Championships are typically held in June and Youth Group Championships in May (long course) or November (short course).
- National Championships: Usually held in Sheffield, this meet selects the top swimmers in each age group based on times recorded during a qualification window.
Club Championships and Annual Participation
Every swimmer aged 9 years and older is encouraged to enter the annual Club Championships. This is an excellent opportunity to achieve official times for entering other meets.
Meet Information and Entries
Information on all the club’s competition meets is available in the Competitions section of the club website. The club selects a variety of meets to accommodate swimmers of all ages and abilities. We also participate in team competitions like the Arena League and Junior League, and swimmers selected for these events are expected to make themselves available. Coaches will inform selected swimmers in advance.
Each meet listing includes details such as:
- Dates
- Warm-up times
- Events
- Qualifying times
- Closing date for entries
Pay close attention to the closing date as entries need to be processed and sent to the meet organizers on time. Always read the meet conditions to ensure you understand the requirements.
Entering a Meet
All meet entries are processed through your swimmer’s Club Organiser account. Meets will only be displayed for eligible swimmers, and you’ll only be able to enter events for which your swimmer has a qualified time.
It’s recommended to discuss potential events with your coach to ensure the right focus and balance for your swimmer.
On the Day of the Meet
- Travel to Open Meets is arranged personally by families. Ensure you know the warm-up start time and arrive at least 30 minutes before to get changed and meet the team.
- Familiarise yourself with the venue. Swimmers will sit with the team and coaches, while parents/spectators usually sit in a separate area.
- Check the catering facilities in case you need to refuel during the day.
- Swimmers should remain with the team and follow the directions of coaches and team managers at all times. If they need to leave poolside, they must inform their coach or manager.
What to Bring
- Two swimming costumes and a warm-up suit
- Two pairs of goggles (plus a spare)
- Two towels (one to stay warm and one for drying off)
- Compulsory Club Kit: poolside and dry-side t-shirts, and a swimming hat
- Snacks and food for the day (high-carb snacks like pasta, bananas, flapjacks)
- At least 2 litres of water or sports drinks (no fizzy drinks)
- Optional: Music (e.g., iPod) or a book/homework.
For Parents
Swimming meets can be long and hot for spectators, so come prepared:
- Purchase a programme at the entry desk to keep track of when your child will swim.
- Ensure your child stays with the group and knows where you are in case of emergency.
- Bring enough food and drink for the day.
- Keep a notebook or paper to record your swimmer’s achievements.
- Stay in the designated spectator areas and avoid crossing into the swimmers’/coaches’ areas.
Results and Record-Keeping
Results from meets will be posted on the Gala Report section of the website and uploaded to your Club Organiser account. Official times from licensed meets are also available on the Swim England Rankings and Results section. It’s important to keep a record of your swimmer’s times as they will be needed to enter future meets.
