Swim Meet 101
Swim meets are one of the most fun parts of summer swim season! Below is a quick overview to help your family know what to expect before, during, and after meets.
You can also read through the SAIL Swim Meet Primer here.
Before the Meet
Write your swimmer’s events on their forearm using a Sharpie marker before arriving to the meet. Include:
- Event #
- Heat #
- Lane #
- Stroke
Example:
Helpful Tip: Please encourage swimmers to pay attention to their events and remain near the team tent when their events are approaching.
What to Bring
- Team swimsuit
- Team cap
- Goggles
- Towels
- Folding chair
- Water bottle
- Healthy snacks
- Bolt Buddy gift (snack, drink, and/or encouraging note)
Pro Tip: Label EVERYTHING your swimmer brings
Arrival Times
Home Meets
- Swimmer arrival: 4:00 PM
- Warmups: 4:15 PM
- Meet start: 5:30 PM
Away Meets
Please arrive at the host pool around 4:30 PM unless otherwise communicated.
Team Tent & Swimmer Area
Swimmers sit together by age group under the Botany Bolts team tents during meets.
Tent Parents help:
- Organize swimmers
- Line swimmers up for events
- Escort younger swimmers to Clerk of Course
Please remind your swimmer:
- Stay near the tent area
- Listen for their events
- Be ready with events on their arm + cap and goggles on
Parent Volunteers
The Bolts are powered by volunteers, and every family is expected to help during meets.
Most positions are easy to learn and are a great way to meet other swim families.
Volunteer signups are completed through SwimTopia.
Concessions
Concessions help support our team and are available during all home meets.
We accept Venmo and cash.
Menus will be shared prior to each meet.
Weather Delays
Weather updates and meet delays will be communicated through the SwimTopia app.
In the event of thunder or lightning, the pool will be cleared in accordance with DHEC regulations.
End of Meet Cleanup
All hands on deck after home meets! Many hands make light work, and cleanup helps us quickly reopen the pool for swimmers and families.
Important Reminder
All SAIL swim meets are alcohol-free events.
