The Estevan Golden Eels will welcome hundreds of swimmers and their families Saturday as the club hosts the south semi-finals of the summer swimming season.
Organizers expect about 250 swimmers to take part. Competitors are coming from across southern Saskatchewan, with clubs from Weyburn, Oxbow, Regina, Assiniboia, Biggar, Elrose, Gravelbourg, Swift Current and other communities making the trip to Estevan.
For all summer swimmmers, the semi-finals are a key moment in the season. The meet determines who qualifies for provincials, which will be held in Watrous on July 26 and 27. The top six finishers in each event from both the south and north semi-finals will advance.
“It’s an exciting opportunity for our athletes,” said organizers with the Golden Eels. “They’re feeling good, motivated, a little nervous but ready to hit the water.”
The Golden Eels have seen strong results this season. Several swimmers aged seven and eight who came through the club’s mini program last year are already making waves, consistently placing in the top six and winning their heats. Older athletes continue to set personal bests, finish in top positions and improve their skills meet after meet.
There are several races the team is especially looking forward to, including Charlie Pyra in the 50-metre fly, Sarah Pyra in the 100-metre fly, Isabelle Pyra in the 50-metre breaststroke and Adalyn Christopherson in the 200-metre individual medley.
But the club says it’s not about singling out one swimmer over another. Every athlete brings something different, and each has their own goals in the pool.
“Even though you are part of a team, at the end of the day, it’s you against the water. Every win is personal. Every swimmer has something they are proud of.”
The team’s goals heading into the weekend are simple: have fun, make memories, chase personal bests and give it their all.
Spectators are welcome to attend the meet, and admission is free. Organizers recommend arriving early and bringing patience, as space will be limited and the facility will be busy with swimmers, coaches, volunteers and fans.
Hosting an event like this brings benefits beyond the pool. The club says the weekend is a chance to show the community what competitive swimming is about, while welcoming visitors from across the region.
“It’s great for the sport, great for our athletes and a great way to show off Estevan.”
