Louth Meridian 2-day Open Meet

Louth Dolphins, together with Lincoln Vulcans, were delighted to welcome clubs from all around the
area and as far away as Sheffield to compete at the Meridian Leisure Centre over the weekend of
16/17 October.
This is the first Open Meet that most of the clubs have been able to attend since pre-Covid in
February 2020. As the swimmers, Coaches, officials, helpers, and parents began to arrive, it soon
became clear that the excitement and enthusiasm shown by everyone was off the charts.
The racing started at 9.30 on Saturday morning and it was apparent that despite such a long time
off, the swimmers speed and ability had not waned at all. From the first race to the last they all
swam their hearts out with Louth Swimmers setting innumerable pbs, well over 150 County
Championship qualifying times, 27 Winter Regional Qualifying times, topped by a National Qualifying
time as well.
A sense of normality is beginning to return but organisers thought long and hard about the safety of
all, deliberately keeping numbers down and asking for all to observe current Government guidelines
Louth’s newly appointed Director of Swimming James McIntyre “The Sportsmanship shown by all the
swimmers was second to none and the smiling, happy faces made the whole weekend a tremendous
success.”
Lincoln Vulcans Head Coach Adam McIntyre “It was great doing what we do! The buzz and
atmosphere on poolside was fantastic, plus there were some excellent swims, from first races
through to national qualifying times. Great job everyone involved.”

Louth Chairman Bob Wells “It never ceases to amaze me how much work and the number of people
it takes to run this type of event. Cheryl Hendle from Vulcans and our own Charlotte Elliott - Wright
did an amazing job organising the event and volunteers. The incredible 50 officials reward was a
stunning hot lunch on both days prepared by Pat and the Aqua Vita crew. An amazing venue and
superb support by all Maga Vitae management and staff.
Both clubs would like to take this opportunity to raise the awareness of the value of competitive
swimming. Not only do our members take part in the physical activity of swimming and experience
all the physical and mental health benefits of regular exercise they are also part of squads who help
them build great determination, resilience, competitiveness, discipline, organisation and team spirit
as well as lifelong friendships.
The pandemic and natural progression has reduced our membership numbers and opportunities
currently exist for younger (7, 8, 9 years) swimmers to complement their swimming lessons by free
trailing with Louth’s Pod Squad please see our Web site www.louth-dolphins.org for more details (
currently being updated)

Both clubs are looking forward to further galas before Christmas and then County Championships in
the New Year on our path to returning to pre-Covid normality.