I've wanted to compete for a number of years but have never taken the plunge because I have no experience in competition.
Is there a way for a newbie like myself to learn the rules/regulations before competing?
I'm currently a member of USMS but I don't swim with a masters group.
Thanks, Clark
Former Member
Thanks everyone for your thoughts and comments.
I was concerned about showing up and getting tossed out for a rule infraction.
I guess I'll just show up, be slightly nervous, possibly get tossed for a rule infraction but still have fun!
If you are doing starts correctly your goggles will not fall of. So, as others have said, make sure you practice starts prior to the meet. If you get it down there should be no need to make them any tighter than you normally wear them. I think the mistake most novices make is to not tuck their chin down far enough when they enter the water. If you enter the water in a nice streamlined position with your biceps covering your ears your goggles shouldn't budge.
Good luck!
At every meet I've been to, the referees have been willing to answer questions or make suggestions. Especially during the 1650. ;) Just make sure that you ask at the appropriate times (like before the race, and not during the starting procedure when they are busy).
Originally posted by rtodd
What I am really nervous about is my goggles coming off!!!! Can anyone advise me on what to do to ensure this does not happen?
I've never had my goggles come off during a race. Unless you have a problem with your goggles coming off during practices, it isn't likely to happen at a race.
If you're concerned, though, some things to check are:
1) Is your strap tight enough? This is most likely to be a problem if (a) you've never adjusted your goggles to make them tight enough, or (b) your goggles are old and the strap is starting to get worn out. I actually prefer to have a special pair of goggles that I only use at meets. The goggles stay relatively new, so the strap works and the lenses haven't had a chance to get fogged with crud.
2) Is the strap positioned properly on your head? I find that it works best to have the back of the strap higher than my eyes. It may also help to use some of the fancier goggles that have two straps, and to position the two straps at different heights.
3) Are the goggles seated properly on your eye sockets? It's worth checking to make sure the goggles make an airtight seal around your eyes even before you've pulled the strap around your head.
Also, what swimsuit is best for the 50 and 100 free?
Wear a competition suit. It's highly unlikely that the differences between the best competition suit and the worst competition suit will be significant at your first meet. If you make it to the Olympics, where hundredths of a second matter, then it may make sense to think about what swimsuit is best for the events you are doing.
If you're a guy, you're likely to do fine with some $20-$25 briefs. But if your heart is really set on something better, think about spending $35-$50 on briefs in a high-tech fabric.
Bob
