Competition FAQ

frequently asked questions

How do I/we know if my swimmer qualifies to participate in a specific meet? 

Coach Janet will indicate to the swimmer, parent / caregiver.

What are qualifying and de-qualifying times?

Qualifying times are benchmarks set by regulatory bodies such as Swim Ontario, Swim Manitoba, etc. that athletes by age must achieve to compete in specific events at sanctioned meets. These times are designed to ensure a level of competitiveness and to foster fair competition across varying skill levels. Not all meets have qualifying times; many meets do not until racing at a higher level, such as Jr. Provincials, ManSask, or Ontario Age Groups. For these higher level meets, each swimming event has its own set of qualifying times, which vary based on gender, age groups, stroke and event distance. There are also de-qualifying standards for some meets. A de-qualifying standard is a time for an event that a swimmer must be below in order to participate.

In competitive swimming, achieving these qualifying times is essential for athletes who wish to progress to higher levels of competition, such as regional, national, or international meets. Not only do qualifying times serve as motivation for swimmers to improve their personal bests, but they also provide a clear framework for planning training cycles and setting goals. At Kenora Swimming, we encourage our athletes to focus on meeting and exceeding their personal best times and qualifying times will come over time. Our coaching team is dedicated to providing the support and expertise necessary to help each swimmer reach their personal time goals, ultimately leading to enhanced performance and confidence in the pool. 

What are Short Course and Long Course? 

Short Course is a 25m pool length, which is the standard size for indoor competitions during the fall and winter months. The short course format allows for more turns, which can create faster race times due to the increased opportunities for push-offs. Sharks train in a 25 meter pool. 

Long Course is a 50m pool length. Long course competitions typically take place during the spring and summer months and are recognized for allowing swimmers to compete in longer distances without the frequent turns associated with shorter pools. 

Will swimmers dive off the blocks? 

Yes, they will absolutely dive off the blocks! Throughout the season, athletes will begin with learning diving techniques from the side before gradually progressing to starting from the blocks. This progression is essential, as a powerful start from the blocks is a critical skill during swim meets. Mastering this technique not only enhances their performance but also builds confidence. 

My swimmer is in Pre-Competitive (45 mins / 1 hr) what meet will they attend? 

Pre-Comp swimmers are able to swim in one meet under the Swim Ontario fee structure. All swimmers are invited to participate in the Kenora home meet in the spring.

How do we sign up for meets? 

Once KSS receives the meet packages, a registration google form will be emailed out. Meet dates, information, and open registration links, can be found here: www.kenoraswimming.ca/competitions/meet-clinic-registration 

Are there fees to attend swim meets? 

Yes, entry fees will be indicated in the meet registration form. 

How do I know what time to arrive? 

Meet warm-up/ activation arrival time will be communicated once Coach Janet knows the meet heats and schedules. Coach Janet typically requests swimmers to arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of warm-up for activation and mini chats.

What should my swimmer bring?

• Racing suit

• Goggles and caps (2 recommended)

• Shark gear ( Tshirts, hoodies or pants)

• Healthy snacks

• Towel

• Deck shoes

• Cards and deck games

How can a parent volunteer at a meet? 

We LOVE volunteers!! Volunteers are the only way to run swim meets! KSS is always looking to train Officials in timing, stroke and turn! If you are interested in volunteering (on deck is the best place to see your swimmer!) please send an email to: officials@kenoraswimming.ca

To follow your swimmer and Kenora Swimming Sharks at meets download: 

Meet Mobile: Swim for IOS or Android

Key reminder: 

Parents / caregivers are not allowed on deck. You’ll be able to cheer your swimmer on from the gallery depending on the venue. Older swimmers help the young / new swimmers on deck.