Competition information
Gala & Competition
Racing Opportunities
Club Competitions
A gala — sometimes called a meet — is a swimming competition where clubs come together for swimmers to race against others of a similar age and ability. Galas can take place at different levels: local, county (such as the Yorkshire Championships), regional, and national events run under Swim England.
Licensed galas are linked to Swim England’s rankings system, so official race times are recorded nationally. Swimmers can track their progress and, if they meet the qualifying standards, move on to higher-level competitions. Under-9s may only swim in internal club galas under Swim England / ASA rules.
More Than Racing
Why We Compete
Galas are an important part of a swimmer’s journey — a chance to put training into action, measure progress and experience the excitement of racing. Beyond competition, galas help build confidence, create lasting memories and give swimmers the pride of representing their club.
For upcoming competitions and event listings, please check: OpenMeets (www.openmeets.co.uk)
Entry process
How to enter competitions, meet closing dates, and what to do if you need to withdraw from an event after entering.
Levels explained
From club events to Yorkshire and National Championships, swimmers progress through clearly structured levels of competition.
What to expect
Gala days are exciting but can feel overwhelming at first. Here’s what swimmers and parents need to know.
Fueling for your races
Good nutrition helps swimmers perform, recover and stay healthy during training and competition.
Positive parent role
A calm, encouraging approach from parents helps swimmers feel confident and prepared. Focus on effort and enjoyment, and allow coaches to guide them poolside.
Common terms
Understand PBs, DQs, HDW, Licensed Meets, Upper Time Limits and other phrases used at competitions.
Entering & Withdrawing
Entry Process
Entering A Gala
Competition invitations and entry details are shared through the club system. Parents confirm participation and select events where required before the published deadline.
Once entries are submitted, they are processed with the event organiser and may be invoiced regardless of later withdrawal. Hosting clubs may accept or reject entries depending on eligibility, qualifying times or event capacity.
Competition Fees
Payment & Withdrawals
Fees for each entry are set by the gala organisers. Total payment will be invoiced securely through Swim Manager at least three weeks before the gala and payable as soon as it is raised. Entries are only confirmed once payment is received.
If your swimmer needs to withdraw, please do so as early as possible through Swim Manager and notify the club gala secretary. Once your entry is accepted, refunds are only available in line with the host club’s policy.
Helpful Links
- Member Tools -
NATIONAL RANKINGS DATABASE
View national rankings for licensed competition swims over the last 12 months.
PERSONAL BEST TIMES
Search official personal best times and competition history recorded by Swim England.
LICENSED MEETS FINDER
Find licensed swimming competitions and approved meets across the country.
Short Course / Long Course Time Converter
Convert short-course (25m) times to long-course (50m) estimates to help when entering competitions.
SE (ASA) Number Finder
Find your ASA / Swim England number by searching the Members Biographical Data list using your surname.
HULL & DISTRICT SWIMMING ASSOCIATION
The local association organising swimming competitions and supporting clubs across the Hull district.