After a few galas, nerves will be much less for both competitor and supporter but the first ones can be daunting for most swimmers, whatever their age. This reif guide will give you some information on what to expect and what preparations you should make.
If you are selected for a gala, your name will be found on the team sheet on the Club noticeboard and will be distributed via e-mail on the club mailing list.
Many galas take place on a Saturday evening. Warm up might start at 5.30pm and last for 45 minutes, with the event starting at 6.15pm. The Cambridge Coach who is at the gala will let all swimmers know what events they are competing in when they arrive at the pool. The gala might end about 9.00pm.
Coach transport may be provided by the Club to an away gala. If parents or supporters are Part Members of the Club they can travel on the coach without charge, space permitting.
Many younger swimmers are likely to be taken to their first galas by car. If a swimmer intends to travel by coach to the gala, but return by car, it is essential that this is communicated to the Coach before the swimmer leaves the gala.
Make sure that the swimmer has enough to drink, with small amounts of food to eat after warm up or between events. When the gala finishes it is essential that a meal is taken, so send it with the swimmer. The Club coach will usually stop on the return journey for some fast food, so send money if that is desirable.
At all day events, such as the County Championships, which might have a morning, afternoon and evening session, sophisticated meal planning is definitely required! It is suggested that you do not rely on the catering facilities at any pool. These can be very busy and may not have the selection that you would hope for. You may only have a short time window to take a meal and then allow for digestion before the next warm ups. If in any doubt take more than you need.
Parkside Pool has probably the best spectator facilities at any pool in our area. Some pools do not have any seating other than plastic chairs along poolside. Cushions are therefore helpful accessories.
At competitions for individuals, such as the County Championships, each competitor will receive a card for every race they have entered or a list of confirmed entries. These are important. When you arrive at the pool you will find 'card boxes' into which the cards must be placed or will need to sign in to confirm they wish to swim. Failure to do so will disallow competition. Usually the information received with the entry form will explain which procedure is being used, but if in doubt consult your coach or a committee member.
If you need guidance on filling in entry forms for competitions please ask a committee member. Please try not to distract the coaches on poolside.