Galas Explained

🎖️ Gala Types Explained – Laois Marlins

Swim Ireland classifies galas into five licence levels. Each level corresponds to the competition’s standard, age eligibility, and whether times can be used for regional or national qualification. Here’s what they mean in simple terms:

Level 1: Fun Galas (Intra‑or Inter‑Club)

Designed for all abilities, especially younger swimmers (from age 7). These events are local, relaxed, and focus 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. These are club-hosted or regional “Future Challenger” galas. Times achieved here can count towards qualifying for Level 3 galas—but only once the gala is licensed and paperwork is submitted correctly.

Level 3: Qualifying / Advanced Local Galas

Includes regional Aspiring Champions Series and school meets. Athletes from age 10 upwards compete in more structured competition, with full electronic timing and qualification standards. 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 the necessary qualification times in Level 3 meets can enter. High standards and times count toward national gala qualification.

Level 5: National Championship Galas

Elite-level meets such as Irish Youth/Senior or Open Championships. These are open only to swimmers who have met qualifying times at Level 4 Regional Championships. Every element is high-profile and fully compliant with FINA standards

🗓️ Gala Season Format

• Short Course (25m) galas run from September 1st to December 31st.

• Long Course (50m) galas take place from January 1st to July 31st, mainly for older swimmers. Younger swimmers typically continue in 25m pools even during the second half of the season

👍 What Should I Attend?

• All swimmers should try Level 1 galas – a supportive way to start in competition.

• 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 and titles.

• Always consult with your coach before entering a gala—appropriate selection helps development and avoids over-racing.

Swim Ireland maintains a clear Pathway of competition levels to ensure fair, developmentally‑appropriate opportunities. If you’d like help working out which gala to enter or how to track qualification times, please ask your coach or Gala Secretary.

🗂️ What Parents Need to Know & Do at Galas

Swim meets are team events—and every swimmer’s success relies on the help and support of their families. Here’s what’s expected of parents at galas:

✅ Before the Gala

• Confirm your child’s attendance and events with the coach or gala coordinator.

• Ensure your swimmer has everything packed: swim gear, food, water, club hat, etc.

• Know the warm-up time and arrive early.

✅ At the Gala

• Support all Marlins swimmers—cheer positively from the stands.

• Avoid entering the pool deck unless you’re on duty.

• Respect gala organisers and officials (they are volunteers too!).

✅ Parent on Duty / Team Manager

At larger meets, we may assign a parent on duty or team manager:

• Check swimmers in with the coach.

• Help younger swimmers know when to go to marshalling.

• Support communication between coaches, swimmers, and parents.

• A Swim Ireland vetting and safeguarding requirement may apply.

✅ Volunteering & Officiating

Every gala needs parent volunteers to run smoothly. Roles include:

• Timekeeper

• Turn judge

• Meet official

• Marshalling support

Training is available, and we strongly encourage all parents to get involved.

Your role matters. Whether you’re helping out on deck or cheering in the stands, you’re part of the team. Thank you for making swim meets a great experience for all our swimmers.

🏊‍♀️ Laois Marlins – Gala Types Summary Table (With Levels)