who can go to nationals?

Are there any sort of prerequisites for going to nationals? I live in central Iowa and have been rather frustrated by our Masters program (or lack there of). I don't really know if anyone competes (aside from triathletes) and there isn't really any coaching (unless requested). I have never actually been on a swim team. So Masters is my first experience outside of swimming on my own. There are very few swim meets anywhere near us (the ones I've found are all 4-10 hr drive away and not in our zone.. do zones matter for participation?). The closest swim meet that I can find is nationals. As a brand new Masters swimmer, can I go? Obviously, I'm not likely to be winning any races or anything, but it sounds like so much fun to go! And, with all 5 of my kids being on a swim team, it would be really exciting for all of us to check it out. Do I have to have one or two other meets 'under my belt' before I can do this? Thanks for your help. :)
Parents
  • Hi Megan Anyone who wants to swim at nationals can. There are time standards but even if you don't make any of the cuts you can still swim 3 events. I've been to a couple of national meets where I've met people for whom nationals was their very meet. Don't get intimidated, just sign up and swim what you would like! You can even start in the water if diving off the blocks isn't for you right now. If you want some workouts you can get them from the USMS website.
Reply
  • Hi Megan Anyone who wants to swim at nationals can. There are time standards but even if you don't make any of the cuts you can still swim 3 events. I've been to a couple of national meets where I've met people for whom nationals was their very meet. Don't get intimidated, just sign up and swim what you would like! You can even start in the water if diving off the blocks isn't for you right now. If you want some workouts you can get them from the USMS website.
Children
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