Swim Ireland Gala Levels

Level 1: Fun Galas (Intra‑ or Inter‑Club)
Designed for all abilities, especially younger swimmers (from age 7). Local, relaxed, and focused on participation and enjoyment. Times are not recorded in the national database.

Level 2: Development or Local Galas
Entry-level competitive meets open from age 9 upwards. Includes club-hosted or regional “Future Challenger” galas. Times achieved here can count towards qualifying for Level 3 galas (once licensed and paperwork submitted).

Level 3: Qualifying / Advanced Local Galas
Includes regional Aspiring Champions Series and school meets. Athletes from age 10 upwards compete in structured competition with electronic timing. Times achieved here can be used to enter Level 4 Regional Championships.

Level 4: Regional Championship Galas
Example: Leinster Short Course or Long Course Championships. Only swimmers who have achieved qualification times in Level 3 meets can enter. Times count toward national gala qualification.

Level 5: National Championship Galas
Elite-level meets such as Irish Youth/Senior or Open Championships. Open only to swimmers who have met qualifying times at Level 4. Fully compliant with FINA standards.

Gala Season Format

  • Short Course (25m): September 1 – December 31
  • Long Course (50m): January 1 – July 31 (mainly for older swimmers; younger swimmers usually stay in 25m pools)

Choosing the Right Gala

  • All swimmers should try Level 1 galas – a supportive way to start.
  • Level 2 galas are ideal for building experience and chasing qualifying times.
  • Level 3 and above are for those aiming for Regional or National ranking.
  • Always consult your coach before entering a gala to ensure appropriate selection.

Arriving at a Gala

  • Arrive on time and check in with the coach/team manager.
  • Parents/guardians are not permitted on pool deck unless on duty.
  • Coaches prepare a scratch sheet during warm-up. Inform the coach if not attending to avoid fines (€10–€50).
  • Never leave before checking if you’re needed for a relay team.

Food & Hydration

  • Night before: Eat plenty of carbs (rice, pasta, potatoes, bananas, porridge) and hydrate.
  • Breakfast: Eat something, even if early. Avoid new foods on gala day.
  • Bring: Sandwiches, fruit, snack bars, jellies, Jaffa cakes, water (with name on bottle).
  • Avoid: Greasy foods (burgers, chips), highly seasoned foods (pizza, curries), fizzy drinks.
  • Keep snacking healthily and drink plenty throughout the day.

What to Bring

Label everything with your name!

  • 2 x Togs (warm-up & race)
  • Club hat (plus spare)
  • Goggles x 2
  • Shorts & T-shirt for between races
  • Water bottle (filled, named)
  • Towels x 2
  • Flip-flops or runners for poolside
  • Sweatshirt/T-shirt to stay warm between races

Parent Responsibilities

Before the Gala

  • Confirm attendance and events with coach/gala coordinator.
  • Ensure swimmer has all gear packed.
  • Know warm-up time and arrive early.

At the Gala

  • Cheer positively from the stands.
  • Avoid entering pool deck unless on duty.
  • Respect officials and volunteers.

Parent on Duty / Team Manager

  • Check swimmers in with coach.
  • Help younger swimmers get to marshalling.
  • Support communication between coaches, swimmers, and parents.
  • Swim Ireland vetting and safeguarding may apply.

Volunteering & Officiating

  • Roles include timekeeper, turn judge, meet official, marshalling support.
  • Training available – we encourage all parents to get involved.

Terminology

  • PB: Personal Best Time
  • NT: No Time (hasn’t swum event before)
  • HDW: Heat Declared Winner (no finals)
  • FTR: Freestyle Team Relay
  • MTR: Medley Team Relay
  • OPEN: All ages compete together; one set of medals awarded.

Summary

Galas can be stressful for younger swimmers—focus on PBs and enjoyment.
Not every swimmer will win medals or improve every time.
Competitions build experience in events, distances, and race techniques.
Parents: Support your child, don’t critique—that’s the coach’s role.