Hey all,
I'm going to be in Austin, TX March 9-13 for SXSW (some small shindig I guess :p).
Anyway, I'm trying to find a place to swim while I'm in town. I guess I could give masters ago, but then my schedule's going to be wonky :).
So ultimately, two questions:
1) Are the master's options nearby cool with drop in folk like me? If so, what are practice times?
2) I'm going to be staying near Lake Park. Anyone know of any pools decent enough for lap swim near there?
OH: and I'm posting this in the big thread just in case there are other folks headed to SXSW :).
That's all, and thanks!
I've also found lots of groups will let you drop-in once for free, but if you're going to be in town for a while and plan to attend a few practices odds are they'll charge you. This makes sense to me since most teams will probably offer potential new swimmers a free trial.
Also, be careful where you park. I got a 35 dollar ticket a few months ago in a completely empty parking lot at about 8pm on campus...UT wants to extract every cent from you to park on their hallowed burnt orange fire ant infested earth.:)
I've often wondered about the drop in fee. It is arbitrary and I'm never quite sure what happens to that cash, not that it really matters. It would nice as part of USMS membership to have an option to increase dues by $XX that would allow you unlimited drop-ins at other USMS clubs (not your home club). I don't know if that would improve the situation or make it any less complicated.
While it pains me to admit this, other than the swimming mecca of the know universe, Charlotte, Austin does seem to have an abundance of really awesome and varied swimming options.
Seriously? Wow, you guys must be extra special elite. Are there qualifying times required before being accepted to workout?
I've showed up at masters workouts all over the country without requesting prior approval. Every single time I was warmly welcomed by the coach and other swimmers*. Only one time was I charged for visiting.
the 10 buck thing is a University policy, the swim center has a front desk monitor who enforces it.
I think she wants prior approval to know who's coming and to make sure there's adequate lane space. I haven't heard of anyone being refused.
There's often 2 or 3 other groups using the pool when we are. We're low on the pools priority list, we're grateful & lucky to get what we're given.
the 10 buck thing is a University policy, the swim center has a front desk monitor who enforces it.
I think she wants prior approval to know who's coming and to make sure there's adequate lane space. I haven't heard of anyone being refused.
There's often 2 or 3 other groups using the pool when we are. We're low on the pools priority list, we're grateful & lucky to get what we're given.
OK, managing space makes sense. I thought you guys had the whole pool and needing prior approval seemed kinda snooty.
Austin is such a great place to be a swimmer...
Sure seems like it. I almost feel like I should give em all a go hah.
Thanks again, all. Definitely helpful.
We train at Nitro in an indoor 50 meter x 25 yard pool Monday through Saturday from 5:30 to 6:45 am. We have coached workouts, and there is no drop in fee. Here is the website:
www.nitroswimming.com/Home.jsp
I did take Ande up on his generous offer five years ago, and then I joined him and some of his teammates for breakfast at Magnolia Cafe (try the gingerbread pancakes if you go).
A few of us swim at Barton Springs on Sunday mornings from 6 until 8:00, then we reconvene at Mozart's for coffee. Admission is free. Wetsuit is optional (as are tops).
