I just competed (and I use the term loosely) in the 2003 National Senior Games and found it very disappointing to see that Master swimmers have pretty much taken over the awards platform. This event used to be mainly for recreational athletes who either could not or did not want to compete at a higher level. This was our opportunity to have a moment in the spotlight by competing against athletes who were “equal” to our level of skill. Our moment to believe we were the best in our group and to share our victories with our friends.
By coming to this event, you (the Master swimmers) have assured that no one who is a recreational athlete will ever get a medal and you have pushed the minimum standard time so low that many athletes no longer qualify to even come to the National event. In talking with over 85 athletes of various ages, it was generally agreed that within the next few years, this will be “just another Master’s venue”. You already have four National Events EACH YEAR, the SC Yards, SC Meters, LC Meters, and the YMCA Nationals. Why can’t you leave ONE event that takes places every OTHER year for the swimmers who will never be at any of your meets? Out of the 85 swimmers I spoke with, an overwhelming percent said they would probably not go to the event in Pittsburgh, PA since there would probably be more Masters there and no place for them.
I realize that this event is open to all seniors, but I ask you, how would you feel to have your only chance to win a medal taken away by someone who probably has a box full of them? If you look at the times, you will see that that the top three places in nearly all events went to Masters who all hold top 10 times in USMS. So the athletes, who are not Masters, had to settle for ribbons. There were so many disappointed families, friends, and swimmers who had hoped to win a medal and stand on the awards platform and share their shining moment with their families. Instead it was Masters and the majority of them didn’t even bring families. It was “just another meet” for them.
I’m sure I’m going to be made the “bad guy” by writing this, but my mother is 83 years old and watched her medal go to a Master swimmer and my heart broke for her. She may not be here for any future games and she really worked hard to do well, then you guys showed up. Please, leave the recreational National Event for us and be happy with your four events each year.
Parents
Former Member
Originally posted by DocG
The point is that if they want to bill themselves as the official "Senior Olympics," with IOC permission, they certainly want the top swimmers there. The only reason there aren't more top level swimmers is because of the ridiculous qualifying requirements to attend (you have to choose your specific events 6-10 months in advance at your State Games).
I agree that they do bill themselves as the "Senior Olympics" which means they should want the top swimmers there. Also, in their publicity they say that the best senior athletes compete in these games. At the national level, you have to expect that the competition will be tough!
I agree about the qualifying rigamarole (which makes it very difficult for somebody who works) plus they wanted entries submitted by the end of January (later amended to the end of February).
Actually for me, I find swimming against a better swimmer inspiring. When I first got started I was inspired by people who could swim several events and turn in good times. I was inspired to train more when I saw what others my age were capable of doing. I couldn't imagine doing a 50 fly in a long course pool, but now I do 200 fly long course. Also, I set a personal best in the fly at Y Nationals (I'm 66), exceeding my seed time by 18 seconds! I was ecstatic even though my main competitor also exceeded her seed time and beat me. Getting to this point was because of being inspired by my fellow swimmers that I (and others my age) are capble of being athletes.
Originally posted by DocG
The point is that if they want to bill themselves as the official "Senior Olympics," with IOC permission, they certainly want the top swimmers there. The only reason there aren't more top level swimmers is because of the ridiculous qualifying requirements to attend (you have to choose your specific events 6-10 months in advance at your State Games).
I agree that they do bill themselves as the "Senior Olympics" which means they should want the top swimmers there. Also, in their publicity they say that the best senior athletes compete in these games. At the national level, you have to expect that the competition will be tough!
I agree about the qualifying rigamarole (which makes it very difficult for somebody who works) plus they wanted entries submitted by the end of January (later amended to the end of February).
Actually for me, I find swimming against a better swimmer inspiring. When I first got started I was inspired by people who could swim several events and turn in good times. I was inspired to train more when I saw what others my age were capable of doing. I couldn't imagine doing a 50 fly in a long course pool, but now I do 200 fly long course. Also, I set a personal best in the fly at Y Nationals (I'm 66), exceeding my seed time by 18 seconds! I was ecstatic even though my main competitor also exceeded her seed time and beat me. Getting to this point was because of being inspired by my fellow swimmers that I (and others my age) are capble of being athletes.
