President's Prattle : September 2022

It has been a few weeks since I last added one of these missives, so here goes.

As you probably know by now the Groper relay carnival saw 20 of our swimmers take part. As a team we came 5th of 18 teams which was a good effort (just shy of fourth). Once again Claremont dominated, but it was great to see a couple of teams not usually represented put up some great results. For Masters Swimming WA this infusion of new members must be pleasing. Our 240 plus squad won their age group.

When the final count was completed by our Treasurer Deb the Joke night raised over $5500 for the WA Multiple Sclerosis Society. This is by far our largest fundraiser, and the Club should be proud of this result. Again it is thanks to Greg and his team who fed off the enthusiasm and inspiration of Alex to develop this top night.

A hardy group of supporters attended Greg’s shed warming and watched the Dockers come second to Collingwood last Saturday night. While not the result hoped for in the footy, it was a fun night anyway. Thanks to all who attended.

There is quite a bit coming up before the end of the year.

This weekend Brett J is again leading a group of adventurous campers south of Collie to Lake Towerrinning. I suspect a lake swim may be called for?? Still space if you wish to join in. For those able to attend this promises to be another fun filled couple of days.

The postal Country Carnival has 2 more weeks to run. Each club member can register 8 swims for this competition with 3.30 Saturdays the time to rock up for a timed swim. It would be great to get a large number on pool deck on Saturday 24th September to again form some relay teams for this event. Captain Mike is keen to finish our entries with a bang!!

IN the pool there is the Stadium Snappers “Act, Belong, Commit Club Challenge” at Stadium Snappers on October 23rd. Entries are online for this one.

Over the years the Club has been developing a friendly relationship with the ever expanding Rockingham Masters. To this end, keep the afternoon of Sunday October 30th for the Banks/Phillips Trophy at our pool. We are hosting this event this year and I am sure it will again be a fun afternoon. In this event we both remember our past life member Ken Phillips and hope to have the type of fun he would have enjoyed, so whether you remember Ken or not come and take part.

Our own ABC Club Challenge is on the morning of Sunday 20th November. We will want “ALL” club members either swimming or helping for this one, so please make it a priority on your calendar. More on this later.

The following week on Saturday 26th November is the “Golden Goggles” Doddi’s Dash. This handicap event has become a club highlight. We will give plenty of notice for this year’s theme!!

It is great to see the Tuesday and Thursday pool swim squads enjoying their training. Thanks to Wayne and the coaches who are now meeting with other coaches from various Masters clubs to exchange ideas.

Two weeks ago the beach was cold, windy, rough and 30 members still hit the water, so I would say there should be some great ocean swimming this summer. It is a very happy vibe at the beach “clubrooms” on Saturday mornings.(especially when celebrating a birthday). Official start time remains 8.00am.

So,

Be kind, look after each other and keep swimming!!

Steve