Sandbach Sharks Swimming Club

Gala FAQ

Question Answer
Where do I find out about galas? Details of upcoming galas are available on the meets calendar. When the club is accepting entries for a meet, entry forms will be issued via Team App and via email, we also endeavour to put some hard copies on the Notice Board at the Boys School.
How do I enter a gala? Entry forms should be completed and posted in the red post-box at the boys school along with the correct payment. Please read the age and time restrictions applicable to the organiser's meet conditions.
How much do galas cost? Entry fees will be indicated on the individual gala conditions and we ask for a £2.00 Administration fee per form, this is a contribution towards poolside passes. Gala payments can be made via cash or cheques payable to Sandbach Sharks ASC. Entries without forms and/or correct payment may not be processed.
How do I withdraw my entry? You can normally withdraw from a gala right up the day of the event, but you MUST INFORM THE GALA MANAGER AND THE ORGANISER. Follow the withdrawal instructions on the meet website as soon as you know you cannot attend so the withdrawal can be arranged for you. Failure to attend one session of a meet often results in withdrawal from the entire competition.
Refunds from galas If you have followed the withdrawal process, you may be entitled to a refund of your entry fees. Refunds will be available from Sandbach Sharks in individually-named envelopes after the club has received the refund from the event. Please do not try to offset the refund against future gala payments.
Who will support my child at galas? We endeavour to have a coach and/or a team manager/gala manager on poolside during the event, however it isn't always possible. Volunteers who wish to be poolside need to be DBS checked for the club and for some events need an ASA number and a Team Manager Level 1 qualification.
Expectations of our swimmers Swimmers are representing our club and should conduct themselves according to our standards. When you arrive at a gala you need to report to the Team Manager or Coach. You must not leave the pool area without the permission of the responsible adult.
What should I bring to a gala?
  • One (or two) swimming costumes (tight-fitting).
  • Goggles and a spare set (please make sure they are correctly sized ready, they fit properly and are comfortable).
  • Sandbach Sharks Swimming Cap (order from our Swim Shop co-ordinator).
  • Sandbach Sharks Top (optional).
  • Poolside shoes/flip flops (these need to be indoor only and not worn outdoors).
  • Shorts/tracksuit bottoms (if the swimmer feels the cold).
  • Plenty of water/juice (it is important for swimmers to stay hydrated).
  • Food and snacks. For full day galas: sandwiches/pasta salad and assorted fruit plus cereal bars/snacks (eg. Jaffa cakes and Haribos). We would advise against nuts/peanuts due to the allergy risks to other swimmers on poolside.
  • Towels - you will need at least one for the poolside and one for getting dry with when changing. If it is an all-day gala and you are in morning and afternoon sessions you may wish to take an extra towel for the 2nd session.
What do parents need to know about galas?
  • Children need to be poolside at least 15 minutes before the allotted warm-up time.
  • Parking charges may apply eg. at Macclesfield the parking is free, but you have to pay at Stockport.
  • There is usually a charge for spectating/the gala programme and this varies by event, make sure you have change with you (usually between £4.00-£8.00).
  • You might wish to take a pen or highlighter with you to identify your swimmer and/or write down their times on your programme although the full results and times are posted soon after the events on the wall at the pool and then online (usually on both the hosting clubs website and the ASA individual times information page).
  • Drinks and snacks.
  • Viewing areas get very warm so dress appropriately.
How can I check my ASA membership and Official Times?

Membership status check:

  • 1. Go to https://www.swimmingresults.org
  • 2. In the Quick links on the right hand side click 'Membership check'
  • 3. Input ASA number if known or surname
  • 4. Select the relevant swimmer

Personal Best Times:

  • 1. Go to https://www.swimmingresults.org
  • 2. Go to the Rankings/Results page
  • 3. Click 'Individual Best Times'
  • 4. Select 'All time'
  • 5. Input ASA number if known or surname
  • 6. Select the relevant swimmer