It’s always a weekend full of surprises when the Red Deer Catalina Freeze or Fry Swim Meet dives into action.
From single-digit temperatures to the high 30s, the only outdoor meet in Alberta always leaves a mark on the swimmers and those who attend.
The meet, now in its 66th year, drew 22 teams and 360 swimmers to the Recreation Centre in Red Deer on June 9 and 10.
Catalina Swim Club high performance coach Scott Wilson said he loves to see the turnout and the performances from the competitors.
At the mercy of the weather, the meet changes ever year with swimmers and fans responding to to the cold and the heat.
“It changes the atmosphere of the meet and how the swims go a little bit, too,” said Wilson. “Some kids are doing an awesome job and step up, other kids don’t really react well but are still trying hard … it’s cool just makes for a different experience for each kid.”
This year a club from Newfoundland made the trip to Red Deer. Wilson said that kind of interest just shows how truly special and unique the experience is at Freeze or Fry.
“It’s the only outdoor competition in Alberta for the whole year, which is really cool. Despite the cold last year we put on a good meet and that gets around,” he said.
The meet served as an Alberta Summer Games qualifier.
Catalina swimmer Brooklyn Wiens, 15, said she hoped she was able to qualify.
“I want to make the summer games team, because in grade 7 when I tried out I didn’t make it. I want to make sure I make it this time,” she said Saturday.
“It would mean a lot. It’s really fun to travel on the team bus and since I didn’t go in Grade 7, I would like the experience to see what it’s like. Just being with my friends because the connections we build are really strong, because we spend a lot of time together.”
Anna Krieger, 13, in her third appearance at the Freeze or Fry, said she always enjoys the challenges it brings, especially in the backstroke. She’s also looking to make the team for the Alberta Summer Games that will be in Grande Prairie from July 19-22.
“It’s exciting because you have to work for different things. In backstroke you have to make sure your head is back and you’re not closing your eyes and running into the other lane (because of the sun),” she said.
“It’s fun, there are lots of clubs this year and more people competing.”
For live results from the weekend go to www.results.teamunify.com/canrdcsc/
Email sports tips to Byron Hackett
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter
