I am scheduled to race in my first-ever meet very soon. I am new to swimming and am very, very slow (to put it mildddly) and have the burden of falling into one of the most competitive age classification. Nonetheless, I am being encouraged to participate (who knows why).
There are no meets in my area before the one in which I am supposed to participate so I can't get a feeling for what to expect. Can someone please give me the lowdown? As likely the slowest swimmer (I'm not being self-deprecating, just realistic) will I be scorned? How embassassing will it be to finish say a 50 Free after the others in my heat have already gotten out of the pool? (My 50 free is on par with most other swimmers' 100 free. Ugh.)
Also, I understand that at some meets, the goal is to rack up team points for a team or workout group title. Can I contriibute to this in any way (remember, I'm the slowest swimmer in the pool)? Should I simply put my foot down and refuse to "race" -- waiting until next year when I will (presumable) be more prepared?
My first meet a year ago was a life changing event. Although I had been swimming with Masters for years, I had not attended a meet.
Since this meet, my focus and dedication to swimming has gone to a new level (obsession, my wife and friends say). The meets give you a training goal not to mention the opportunity to meet and watch other people with your same hobby.
Plus, if you go to a smaller meet, you will probably place in your events and get a nifty ribbon or medal.
Have fun.
My first meet a year ago was a life changing event. Although I had been swimming with Masters for years, I had not attended a meet.
Since this meet, my focus and dedication to swimming has gone to a new level (obsession, my wife and friends say). The meets give you a training goal not to mention the opportunity to meet and watch other people with your same hobby.
Plus, if you go to a smaller meet, you will probably place in your events and get a nifty ribbon or medal.
Have fun.
