On Sunday 9 August, 2009, Gladstone Gropers Swimming Club held a mini (short course)Winter Handicap Championships at the Gladstone Regional Council – Gladstone Aquatic Centre Indoor Pool.

Most participants entered all swims (butterfly, back, breast and free style strokes). In the limited time available (1½ hours – Gropers normal Sunday morning Training session) there were three heats in each stroke. Two swimmers from each heat were then selected to go into the finals. The four winners were:-

Deanna (butterfly); Elaine (back); Don (breast); Des (free style) were the champions. Each one was presented with a fine bottle of wine by Meet Director Greg.

Greg was then presented with a swim trophy to thank him for the background work to make the Swim Meet run smoothly.

In reply Greg thanked all participants and warmly thanked all volunteers – referee, starter, counter , chief time keeper and time keepers. The Committee was asked to make this inaugural event an annual one

 

                                        

      L-R Don, Des, Deanna, (absent Elaine) with their trophies, and Meet Director, Greg
      with Past President Ken White. In the background referee Russell looks on.
                                         

                                      Carnival Director Greg with his trophy

                                          

                            Some of the swimmers waiting to be called for the finals
                                    2 August, 2009 – Gladstone Regional Council Aquatic Pool

Past President Ken presented Deanna with the 2008 Aerobic trophies. The small shield is a trophy given to all Members who complete the aerobic programme. The special large Gladstone Gropers Trophy is presented to a Member who has achieved maximum points and received the highest bonus points. This trophy is usually presented at Gropers’ mid year function in May/June. The trophies were designed & donated by Custom Cabinetry