I will be attending a regional SCY meet this weekend for the first time. Can someone give me an idea of what to expect -- besides hundreds of swimmers vying for parking spaces, warm-up lanes and deck space? Specifically, what do most swimmers DO between races? Is there usually a place to leave your stuff or must you lug it around all weekend? Should I bring a blanket, chair, pillow etc.? Do teams hang out together? How early should I arrive before my first event? (Check in is one hour prior but do I need to be there much before that?)
You get the idea. I just need someone to give me the lay of the land for a big meet.
Former Member
Between your own races, and while you're chatting to teammates, you can watch the swimming action. There's lots to learn from and to be amused by, much to admire, much to be inspired by--in all the heats. As you watch, you can reflect on your own efforts that day. It's a really nice experience, and the whole atmosphere is so upbeat. I'm prettty new to all this. The few meets I've been to have been great for learning and fun. Don't forget water and sunscreen.
Are you coming to the meet at Harvard this week-end? Basically, what everyone here said is correct. Masters meets are a lot of fun. Lots of people hanging out. Assuming you're coming to the Harvard meet.... there will be locker rooms where you can lock things for the day, but "standard disclaimer - not responsible for lost items". The Harvard meet will have a swimwear vendor at the meet, too, as well as concessions. At some of the big meets that last a long time, sometimes people leave the pool between swims and "go do other stuff" and then come back. At Harvard, that's pretty easy to do, since Harvard Square is just on the other side of the river (5 minute walk).
One other thing... for the Harvard meet, we're making a particular effort this year to try to make the meet easier to understand for people new to Masters swimming (or to swimming at all). There will be lots of people around to ask questions, etc., as well as easy-to-read signage with important information. (I made the signs last night...)
The other thing about Masters swimming is that while we're all on teams, etc., and sometimes we can get competitive (especially during relays!), it's really about the most friendly kind of competitive spirit you'll ever see. Really, we're all one big team.
-Rick
Checking in doesn't take much time, so arrive as early as you need to get your warmup in. An hour before the meet starts is probably fine. You will want to look at the heat sheet to see what lanes you are swimming in. You may want to warm up in one of the lanes that you are swimming in, especially if you are doing a race that includes backstroke.
Teams usually sit together, but not everyone from the team will necessarily do so. Bring pads, lawn chairs, blankets, etc. There may be a spot for them. You can always leave them in the trunk. Bleachers and seating tends to be pretty hard, and not that comfortable.
Mostly people warm up, warm down, gossip, cheer, and eat between races. Maybe that's just me.
Swim fast!
Sometimes at really big meets there are vendors and you can shop.
If you are going to be there a long time be a kid at heart and bring a Gamebody, portable CD player or something small that you can pack away to amuse yourself. This especially works if you are not on a team and/or are inclined to be antisocial.;)
