CLUB INFORMATION

Originating in America in the late 1960s, Masters swimming has rapidly spread to many parts of the world. East Anglian Swallow Tails was formed in 1987 after a group of swimmers felt there was a need for a Masters club and after much hard work by Jane Asher and a small dedicated committee. The club is still the only one in East Anglia formed solely for Masters and has a strength of over 100 members. Jane Asher is our Honorary Life President, and although living in London, gives us much support and encouragement: she continues her remarkable achievements as a world master champion in a variety of events. The officers and committee meet four times a year and their aim is to serve your interests. Suggestions and criticisms are welcomed and should be sent to the Hon. Secretary.

Participants in Masters events compete against other swimmers in their own age group, in five year age bands, i.e. 25-29, 30-34 and so on.

In the British Isles there are a considerable number of clubs, many staging annual and other events (galas) and, if you intend to compete (and it need not be at a high level), you will have no difficulty in selecting a Meet to suit your ability. The camaraderie at galas is terrific; there is opportunity to make friends, have fun, and to learn - that is what Masters swimming is all about. Non-competitive members enjoy the company of others at our local sessions and at our various ‘social events’.

You will have opportunities as a member of E.A.S.T. to attend ‘clinics’ - one hour sessions to correct stroke technique, learn about flexibility, discuss diet etc. and occasionally we hold half-day and day courses for members and others.

MEMBERSHIP SUBSCRIPTION

The current membership subscription is £10.00 per annum. This becomes due on 1^st January. Members are asked to pay promptly by sending remittance to the Membership Secretary by cheque in the envelope provided on request.

ASA REGISTRATION

In addition to the Membership Subscription, members are required to pay a Registration Fee to the Amateur Swimming Association (ASA) through the Club.

SWIMMING SESSIONS

Because we are a varied group of swimmers and this particularly refers to Saturday where we only have three lanes it is imperative that consideration is given to each other. The recognized system is that if you are gaining on the swimmer in front DO NOT OVERTAKE AS THIS IS VERY DANGEROUS simply touch the toe of the swimmer and when he or she gets to the end of the lane he or she will wait and let you go on. In a 50 metre pool it is possible for swimmers to space themselves out or simply to judge what is happening and act accordingly i.e. negotiate with each other at the end of the lanes.

1. Be aware of and appreciate the inherent risks involved in training and competition including the possibility of injury and accident to yourself and others.
2. If at any time you feel that you are putting yourself at risk during the training schedule then you must tailor your swim to your ability.
3. You must conduct yourself in a responsible manner towards others.

VISITORS - Members of other clubs may be eligible to swim if they are a paid-up member of that club for a limited period at the discretion of the committee otherwise they must pay a membership and join EAST.

GUESTS - of members are welcome provided the member contacts a committee member first to check that it is suitable for you to bring a visitor. The member will be responsible for the guest’s conduct and session fees.

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Members are duly notified of this meeting.

THE NEWSLETTER

This is published occasionally and contains information such as reports and results of galas, forthcoming events, etc. Members are urged to contribute items and script for these and any such material should be sent to the Hon. Secretary.

CLUB HAT

This is an attractively designed piece of headgear for swimming - printed in our colours. Ask our Hon. Secretary for one of these modestly priced hats.