Page 14 - 4SSC Handbook 2018

Open meets – After sign‐In
Where there are multiple session in the day, it is usual to have a warm up per session and these

operate in different ways for each host. Make a note of the warm up times and listen out for any
changes to the warm-up programme, although the coach / team manager will usually instruct
you where you need to go and when your warm-up session will be.

After warm-up, when the gala is under way, swimmers should go to the marshalling area at least
5 or 6 heats prior to the one that they are racing in. Again the coach / team manager will be on

hand to advise you when and where to go.

After races, swimmers should keep warm and drink plenty of fluids, stretching while muscles are
warm can also be helpful. As swimming pools are very hot swimmers must drink plenty of fluids
throughout the day to prevent dehydration, which can lead to muscle cramps.

Soon after the end of each event, the results will be placed in a designated Results Area. Medal
winners should collect their prize from the medal desk which is usually poolside. This should be
done before the end of the day.

Can parents attend open meets?

Absolutely yes, parents are actively encouraged to watch and support their children. Spectator
space is usually at a premium, very cramped and very hot. Adults are advised that flip-flops and
shorts are in order, even in the middle of winter!

PLEASE NOTE: Swimmers should never leave poolside unless they have permission from the
coach or team manager. Neither should parents leave children unaccompanied at any time
during an open meet. If a parent is unable to attend an open meet with their child, it is their
responsibility to find a chaperone. The club cannot be held responsible for children left

unaccompanied.

Competition Kit List

Club T-shirt poolside and while awaiting races. If you haven’t got one yet a white t-shirt
will suffice.

Club swimming hat, or 2 if you prefer to wear two [always take a spare one too]

Goggles [with at least one spare pair], ensure they are at “racing tightness” i.e. tighter than

usual so that they do not slip off when you dive in.
Swimsuit / race suit – if you wear a race suit [or leg suit] then take an ordinary swimsuit to

warm-up with.

Poolside shoes, e.g. flip flops or Crocs, these are very important – many open meets insist
upon the use of pool shoes or you will not be allowed poolside.

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