I enjoyed the day set aside for relays alone at Nationals. It contributed greatly to our team spirit. However, after swimming on 4 relays on Saturday, I was exhausted for my individual events on Sunday. I suggest that, if USMS decides to use this format again, the "Relays only" day be the last day of the meet for several reasons: (1) It will not affect a swimmer's performance in any individual event, and (2) if a swimmer is not participating in relays, he/she can enjoy the host city or depart early for home.
I have mixed feelings about the relay day in the middle of the meet like it was this year.
On the one hand, I think it is an awesome idea. Like Red pointed out, this was a great way to get more USMS members involved - especially those that wouldn't have otherwise come to the meet. For those with large teams, this is a great chance to meet some great people you may not otherwise swim or hang out with.
On the other hand, if your team is small, or can't muster up enough people for a relay, it kinda sucks when the rest of your friends are at the pool swimming all day long and you're stuck trying to fill your day with activities without blowing your taper and your wallet. I could have done without the extra night in a hotel + meals and activity fees.
However, in the end, I will say that the way this meet worked out for me was great. I was able to race three races in two days, then have a day off (because our team was only two members) to recover and enjoy a movie, dinner and Colts Pro Shop trip with my lady-friend. And the following morning, we both wake up refreshed and belt out more fast swims.
I have mixed feelings about the relay day in the middle of the meet like it was this year.
On the one hand, I think it is an awesome idea. Like Red pointed out, this was a great way to get more USMS members involved - especially those that wouldn't have otherwise come to the meet. For those with large teams, this is a great chance to meet some great people you may not otherwise swim or hang out with.
On the other hand, if your team is small, or can't muster up enough people for a relay, it kinda sucks when the rest of your friends are at the pool swimming all day long and you're stuck trying to fill your day with activities without blowing your taper and your wallet. I could have done without the extra night in a hotel + meals and activity fees.
However, in the end, I will say that the way this meet worked out for me was great. I was able to race three races in two days, then have a day off (because our team was only two members) to recover and enjoy a movie, dinner and Colts Pro Shop trip with my lady-friend. And the following morning, we both wake up refreshed and belt out more fast swims.
