Officials Secretary Reports on her time at the British Swimming Selection Trials

Nicky Vause our South West Officials Secretary reports on her time Officiating recently at the British Swimming Selection Trails which were held on 14th to 18th April 2021 at the London Aquatics Centre. 

I felt privileged to be appointed as a Technical Official for the British Time Trials; held at the London Aquatics Centre from 14 – 18 April. With so little opportunities to race this was a pivotal event for British swimmers aiming for Olympic selection.

Despite Covid measures in place: pre event testing, testing on arrival, daily temperature tests, living in a strict event bubble, (eating all meals in your room) and sanitizing the equipment between races it was business as usual. However, I will confess that I had first day nerves; after a break of over a year would I be able to officiate to the required standard, pleased to say they quickly disappeared, and I cracked on.

In addition to witnessing some amazing swimming the highlight was seeing the enjoyment gained by the athletes from competing. Looking forward to the Tokyo Olympics the athletes renewed love of the sport will surely spur them on to podium places.

As Covid restrictions ease and we look towards the planned Summer Festival of Swimming event I look forward to officiating with friends and colleagues in the South West.