Entering a Swimming Gala
Entering a Swimming Gala
Whether it's your first gala or your hundredth race, this guide covers everything you need to show up feeling confident, prepared, and ready to swim your best.
New to Galas?
Swimming galas can feel like a whole new world at first. Competitions are grouped into levels — think of them as stepping stones as your swimmer progresses. The Head Coach decides which squads attend each gala, and this is shown on the Competition Calendar. If you're ever unsure about times, races, or entries, speak to your Squad Rep or Coach.
Types of Swimming Galas
D&G Mini Meets
- Internal, informal events for very young swimmers
- Super relaxed and fun - no pressure
- Helps swimmers get used to what happens at galas
Club Champs & Time Trials
- Held within your own club
- Great for tracking progress and testing yourself
- A brilliant starting point for beginners
Graded / Open Meets
- Club-run competitions open to many clubs
- Entry based on time limits (upper cut-offs)
- Where most swimmers gain their first rankings times
Open Meets (Licensed)
- Higher-level licensed competitions
- Qualifying times required to enter
- Times count towards Regional and National rankings
League Galas
Junior League, N&D Champs etc.
- Clubs compete against each other as a team
- Scores are totalled for overall club performance
- A great way to build club spirit
Championships
N&Ds (County), NERs (Regional), and National Championships. Strict qualifying standards apply - times must appear on official rankings and be gained at the appropriate level meets.
Your D&G Squad Rep will let you know when a gala is open for entry.
Meet Your Squad RepEntering a Gala - Procedure
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1
Check the Competition Calendar
The Head Coach decides which squads attend each gala. Check the Competition Calendar to see which meets are relevant for your swimmer's squad.
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Talk to Your Coach
Your swimmer's coach can advise on which events to enter based on their experience, progress, and qualifying times. Check whether your child has the times needed, and make sure you use the correct pool length (Long Course 50m or Short Course 25m).
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Find the Meet Page & Enter
Each meet has its own page on this website with full entry details. Most entries are via Club Organiser — log in, click Payments, then Fixture/Gala Payment. Some meets may use email entry; this will always be made clear on the meet page.
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4
Make Payment
Complete the checkout and payment for your selected events. You'll receive a confirmation email once done.
Host Club Information: All meet details come from the host club running the gala. Always check the host club's website for any updates or changes.
The club cannot refund entries made outside the host club's rules. Refunds are at the host club's discretion only.
Parents and swimmers must not contact host clubs directly. Please contact the Competition Secretary with any queries.
What to Bring to a Swimming Gala
View Full Kit RequirementsClub Gear
- D&G Club T-shirt for team spirit and warmth
- D&G Club hat
Race Essentials
- Race suit (comfortable and competition-ready)
- Goggles - plus a spare pair just in case
- At least two towels (one poolside, one to dry off)
Poolside Comfort
- Flip-flops or sliders to keep feet dry and safe
Food & Hydration
- Water bottles - hydration is key
- Bananas and flapjacks are top choices
- Light sandwiches, rice cakes, or dried fruit also work well
Swimming uses a lot of energy. Staying fuelled and hydrated keeps you focused and feeling good.
Entertainment
- A book, tablet, or music to pass the time between races
- Headphones for quiet moments
Be careful with expensive electronics near the water.
On Gala Day - What to Expect
Arrive Early
Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before warm-up begins. Your coach or squad rep may have specific arrival instructions - check in with them the day before if you're unsure.
Warm-Up Time
Warm-ups are usually split by gender and age group. Listen out for announcements so you're ready at the right time.
Race Heats
Swimmers race in heats grouped by entry times, not by age. You may swim alongside older or younger athletes - just focus on your own swim.
Results & Medals
Medals and rankings are based on age group, not heat position. You might win a medal even if you weren't first in your heat - so race right to the end.
Team Managers
Every gala will have 2 to 3 Team Managers poolside to support swimmers and answer questions. If your child has any medical or personal requirements, please inform Team Managers ahead of time.
Withdrawals
If your swimmer can't take part in an event, let your coach or club know as early as possible. Refunds are at the host club's discretion - check the specific meet rules for details.
Swimming Gala Success Tips
Track Your PBs
Keep a record of your Personal Bests to see how you're improving over time. Even small improvements are huge wins - progress is the goal.
Check Pool Length
Always check whether a meet is Long Course (50m) or Short Course (25m) before comparing times. Using the wrong length can mean entering the wrong heat or missing a qualifying standard.
Talk to Your Coach
Not sure which events to enter? Ask your coach. They know your strengths and can guide you toward the right races.
Don't Fear Disqualifications
Every swimmer gets DQ'd at some point. Ask any of our older performance swimmers - DQs made them better. Use it as a chance to improve your technique.
Celebrate Every Swim
Effort and growth matter just as much as results. Be proud of every splash.
Gala Levels in More Detail
Galas are grouped into four levels - think of them as stepping stones as swimmers progress. For National, Regional, County, Level 1 and Level 2 meets, qualifying times must appear on official rankings.
Download: Swim England Open Meet Licensing Criteria (PDF)National Standard (Long Course)
For swimmers at or close to National standard.
Pool: Long course (50m) only.
Entry: Qualifying time required, verified in Rankings from Level 1 or 2.
County Level Aiming Higher (Short Course)
For County level swimmers aiming for Regional or National times.
Pool: Short course (25m) only.
Entry: Qualifying time required, verified in Rankings from Level 1 or 2.
Working Towards County
For swimmers working towards County qualification.
Pool: Long course (50m) or short course (25m).
Entry: Upper cut-off times apply; lower qualifying times may also be set.
Entry Level Competition
For swimmers below County standard, new to competition outside their own club.
Includes: Club Championships, Time Trials, and inter-club events of up to eight invited clubs.
Times are not acceptable for Regional or National events.