WERRIS Creek and Kootingal swimming club annual carnivals are overflowing.
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That is, with swimmers and entries, for their major meets this weekend.
On Sunday, Kootingal hosts its biggest ever meeting.
“We’re up about 100 entries on last year,” club coach Greg Poetschka said this week.
That will give them more than 1000 entries.
At Werris Creek the 46th Long Course Qualifying Swim Carnival at the Werris Creek Memorial Pool tomorrow is “much bigger than last year”, club spokeswoman Tammie Clark said.
She said 177 swimmers have made 977 individual entries.
“The club is overwhelmed with the support from the area, with some of the clubs travelling up to 3½ hours to attend our carnival.
“Clubs from all around the region will be attending, including Armidale, Gunnedah, Nundle, Scone, Tamworth, Inverell, Muswellbrook, Boggabri, Quirindi, and some travelling from as far as Raymond Terrace, Narrabri and Wee Waa.”
One factor in the success of the small club to attract such big numbers is the fact the event is one of the final long course swim carnivals for the local area for the season and the chance for swimmers to qualify for NSW Country Championships to be held in Sydney on February 21/22.
NSW Country Championship entries close Wednesday, February 11.
Clark said Werris Creek would hire semi-automatic timers from Swimming NSW as well
“This technology continues to bring Werris Creek up to current standards set by Swimming NSW and makes the carnival more efficient and more accurate,” Clark said.
One of the highlights of the Werris Creek Carnival is the “Dash for Cash”.
Dash for Cash events are run in two age groups 12 & Under and 13 & Over.
“We have increased our prize money to encourage older swimmers to attend,” Clark said.
“This carnival will have two swimmers who will be competing in the 1500m freestyle event and one swimmer in the 800m freestyle.
“This is a great accomplishment for these athletes.
“Although Werris Creek is a relatively small club, the enthusiasm and commitment of our swimmers, parents and volunteers is commendable.
“There are 20 squad members who are competitive swimmers who regularly attend carnivals throughout the North West region.
“Debbie Faulkner is the club’s head trainer and Lisa Dellar is her assistant, with the help and assistance of dedicated parents.”
More information from race secretary, Kellie Tickle (0478 595218).