I read that LC Nationals would be at the Woodlands (Texas) next year. While I am happy that the meet is in my backyard, that pool has one significant flaw. The shallow end is only 3 feet deep which causes the blocks to be only 18 inches or so off the water (on that end).
The Woodlands typically uses the shallow end as the start end for 50's so that timers do not have to move. I know this is just anecdotal, but my personal experiences have been poor. From the same meet: I went a 25.6 from the shallow end and then 25.0 from the deep (leading off a relay) in 2001. In 2002 26.0, 25.3 (again leading off a relay) and even back in 1997 I went a 25.5 anchoring a relay from the shallow end, and then a 25.5 in the regular event from the deep end.
I heard a rumor that the 2008 LC meet will be at Mt. Hood CC near Portland, Oregon. I didn't think the 2008 meet had been officially awarded yet, but anyone want to confirm or deny this rumor?
The information presented above is incorrect.
The Woodlands have made adaptions to their pool so that the water level will be 4' 2" at the shallow end and 7' 6" at the deeper end. This has been done since the last time the facility hosted nationals.
It should also be pointed out that this is a 9 lane pool, so the days should run about 12% faster than if we held it the meet in an 8 lane pool.
Originally posted by mbmg3282
The information presented above is incorrect.
The Woodlands have made adaptions to their pool so that the water level will be 4' 2" at the shallow end and 7' 6" at the deeper end. This has been done since the last time the facility hosted nationals.
It should also be pointed out that this is a 9 lane pool, so the days should run about 12% faster than if we held it the meet in an 8 lane pool.
Mark, that is great news. But just to be sure, these adaptions were made when? And 4' 2'' is still pretty shallow, am I correctly reading your post to mean that the blocks will be the same height on both ends?
Originally posted by mbmg3282
I know the changes were made at least by last summer if not before. I will defer to Tom Boak, the meet director, on the blocks.
I will check it out myself. Judging by your posts, I am guessing that the issue was considered when the meet was awarded to the Woodlands. I am not surprised that you guys are on top of these things!
I checked with Tom Boak...
The blocks are currently shorter at the shallow end. This makes sense. With the depth at a little over 4', shorter blocks really would work better and be safer.
The only time that starts will occur at the shallow end will be during relays. All individual events, including 50's will start at the deep end of the pool.
