Just curious if anyone out there has competed in any USA swim meets in the "open" age group category. My masters coach who is also the age group coach is encouraging me to register for this meet. I guess I am somewhat concerned of the "perception" of a 36 year old swimming next to mom and dads junior swimmer. I know I can hold my own against these kids but am also afraid that I could discourage the younger swimmer in age group if he gets beat by an 36 yr old.
Any Thoughts?
Greg
Parents
Former Member
Greg,
I've competed in some of my kids' USS meets now for 2 years. I can tell you that the reaction I've witnessed is overwhelmingly positive. There are many parents (and swimmers) who clap and cheer, and there are a few others who state under their breaths that these meets are "for the kids". I haven't seen anyone who became discouraged because of it.
A few of us Ventura County Masters swim these meets on a semi-regular basis (myself, Jim McConica, John Derr, Mike Shaffer), and since we're affiliated with the Buenaventura Swim Club, we oftentimes are racing the same kids with whom we train. With that perspective it's a win for everyone.
The one thing we are all concerned about is that our presence at a meet doesn't detract from the meet nor drag it out endlessly. We generally pick an event or two, not the whole slate of possible events. Besides, we need longer to recuperate. :)
My opinion: if YOU want to do it, GO AHEAD! People need to realize that swimming is a sport for people of all ages. If you can be competitive - or even better, win - some races, then great! You will have served as an inspiration to the kids AND their parents.
Tim
PS: there's nothing like the look on a kid's face when an adult approach the block next to them. It is PRICELESS!
Greg,
I've competed in some of my kids' USS meets now for 2 years. I can tell you that the reaction I've witnessed is overwhelmingly positive. There are many parents (and swimmers) who clap and cheer, and there are a few others who state under their breaths that these meets are "for the kids". I haven't seen anyone who became discouraged because of it.
A few of us Ventura County Masters swim these meets on a semi-regular basis (myself, Jim McConica, John Derr, Mike Shaffer), and since we're affiliated with the Buenaventura Swim Club, we oftentimes are racing the same kids with whom we train. With that perspective it's a win for everyone.
The one thing we are all concerned about is that our presence at a meet doesn't detract from the meet nor drag it out endlessly. We generally pick an event or two, not the whole slate of possible events. Besides, we need longer to recuperate. :)
My opinion: if YOU want to do it, GO AHEAD! People need to realize that swimming is a sport for people of all ages. If you can be competitive - or even better, win - some races, then great! You will have served as an inspiration to the kids AND their parents.
Tim
PS: there's nothing like the look on a kid's face when an adult approach the block next to them. It is PRICELESS!
