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.
Former Member
"there is no mechanism for competition between swimmers of SIMILAR ability levels"
Au contraire! There is an extremely simple system for competition between swimmers of similar ability levels already in place! It is commonly called "seeded heats". If you REALLY want to give awards based on swimming against others of similar ability levels then award heat ribbons (or medals or plaques or ...) 6 or 8 or 10 (or however many lanes there are in the pool) places deep.
This way you only have to compete with people who are within a second or so of your own ability.
"I don't agree with her proposed solution but I too have struggled a bit with the fact that because I started this late in life and had no early training and no competitive experience I will likely never be a record holder even at my local level."
I would like to mention Margery Meyer (80 years young) who began her swimming career while in her mid 60's. It's my understanding that she had no early training and competitive experience either.
I remember watching Margery in her earlier meets and can attest that her progress has been amazing. How has she become a multi National and World record holder? With practice and coaching. Margery signed up for a program at a local junior college and has since trained with masters groups. Even though she was well into her "senior" years, she sought help with technique and training and she's obviously a good "student" because she's pretty darned fast! I know many women in their 40's and 50's who worry that she'll beat them!
This has been an interesting thread. Like many others who have posted, I have a hard time thinking of which masters swimmers might have been rude but I guess in any large group you're bound to find someone who behaves badly. At 56, I compete in the same age group as the woman who started this thread and I'm at a loss as to who might be guilty of this. I'll check out the results and see if I can find the "culprit".
BTW, I swam by myself most of the time and without a coach for about 20 years. I would have much preferred to do it differently but I managed to stay in relatively good shape in spite of the conditions. I went to clinics whenever possible and I always focused on goals (i.e. improving my flip turns, learning bi-lateral breathing) when training. A large percentage of masters swimmers train without teams and coaches; it is a gross misconception to think otherwise. I am fortunate now to have moved to an area with a team and coach and the socialization aspect is particularly rewarding.
Sally
Although I don't "qualify" for this discussion based on participation (6 years to go!), I wanted to share my thoughts.
As someone who may fall into some folks definition as an "elite" Masters swimmer, I also happen to be an avid cyclist. Needless to say, at 6' 6" and 225 lbs I fall far outside the "specs" of your average cyclist. Being that I like to compete I have chosen to humiliate myslef on a regular basis by participating in time trials and group "pace" rides, all of which I am always at the back of the pack (usually the opposite of my studly wife).
Point being is that although I understand wanting to win and recieve the awards, everyone has areas they excel at and the ultimate "game" is the one you can win over your own mind and body.
PS: On "rude" behavior, my guess is that if someone hasn't been around a lot of meets that those of us who enjoy some quiet time before a race can be seen as unfriendly.
Personally I think we took this subject , and wrung it out like a wet rag. I think enough said. WE might forget what the subject was about.:) :cool: :)
