Louth Dolphins, together with Lincoln Vulcans, were delighted to welcome clubs from all around the area and as far away as Sheffield to meet and compete at the Meridian Leisure Centre over the weekend of 16/17 October.
This is the first Open Meet that most of the clubs have been able to attend since pre-Covid in February 2020. As the swimmers, Coaches, officials, helpers, and parents began to arrive, it soon became clear that the excitement and enthusiasm shown by everyone was off the charts.
The racing started at 9.30 on Saturday morning and it was apparent that despite such a long time off, the swimmers speed and ability had not waned at all. From the first race to the last they all swam their hearts out with Louth Swimmers setting innumerable pbs, well over 150 County Championship qualifying times, 27 Winter Regional Qualifying times, topped by a National Qualifying time as well.
A sense of normality is beginning to return but organisers thought long and hard about the safety of all, deliberately keeping numbers down and asking for all to observe current Government guidelines
Louth’s newly appointed Director of Swimming James McIntyre “The Sportsmanship shown by all the swimmers was second to none and the smiling, happy faces made the whole weekend a tremendous success.”
Lincoln Vulcans Head Coach Adam McIntyre “It was great doing what we do! The buzz and atmosphere on poolside was fantastic, plus there were some excellent swims, from first races through to national qualifying times. Great job everyone involved.”
Louth Chairman Bob Wells “It never ceases to amaze me how much work and the number of people it takes to run this type of event. Cheryl Hendle from Vulcans and our own Charlotte Elliott – Wright did an amazing job organising the event and volunteers. The incredible 50 officials reward was a stunning hot lunch on both days prepared by Pat and the Aqua Vita crew. An amazing venue and superb support by all Magna Vitae management and staff.
Both clubs would like to take this opportunity to raise the awareness of the value of competitive swimming. Not only do our members take part in the physical activity of swimming and experience all the physical and mental health benefits of regular exercise they are also part of squads who help them build great determination, resilience, competitiveness, discipline, organisation and team spirit as well as lifelong friendships.
The pandemic and natural progression has reduced our membership numbers and opportunities currently exist for younger (7, 8, 9 years) swimmers to complement their swimming lessons by free trailing with Louth’s Pod Squad please see our website www.louth-dolphins.org for more details.
Both clubs are looking forward to further galas before Christmas and then County Championships in the New Year on our path to returning to pre-Covid normality.