Qualifying times and entry dates revealed for British Masters

Entries for the 2019 British Masters Long Course Championships are to follow a two-stage process – to reflect in an improvement in performance levels.

This year’s event returns to Wales for the first time since 2014 and will take place at the Wales National Pool, Swansea, between 14-16 June.

The qualification standards have been released in cooperation between the Swim Wales Events Team and the Home Countries Masters Swimming Management Group.

Stage one entries, which open on 8 March, will allow swimmers who have achieved the higher standard of qualifying times to secure their entries early

On April 3, the stage two entries will open with more relaxed qualifying times, filling all the remaining lanes including, where possible, additional races.

Lydia Gyngell. Swim Wales National Events and Volunteer Manager, said: “The two-stage entry system allows us to maximise competitor spaces, offering as many as possible the opportunity to swim whilst maintaining a national standard of competition.

“While there has been an increase in this year’s standards, considerations have been made to encourage older competitors to be a part of the British Championships.

“Therefore rather than apply a blanket time improvement factor or implement a minimum decathlon points score, previous event data has been analysed in detail to come up with standards that will ensure the smooth running of the event and inclusivity.

Enjoyable experience

“A commitment was made some time ago to rotate the British Championships around the Home Nations.

“Wales National Pool Swansea, home to Swim Wales and Welsh Aquatics, is no stranger to hosting National events that attract more than 3,000 competitors a year.

“The events team is currently working hard to ensure that the competition is an enjoyable experience for all competitors, spectators, volunteers and officials.

Lydia added: “The British Masters Championships is the flagship event of the Masters calendar, and Swim Wales are excited to be hosting the event and welcoming both British and overseas competitors to the second biggest city in Wales.”

To ensure the June competition is a pleasant experience for all, a joint decision to bring the 1500m events forward was made.

The long distance events have now been incorporated into the Welsh Seniors and Masters Long Course, enabling more competitors to take part in the 1500m than last year.

For more information on the competition and to view qualification times please click here, or contact [email protected].