The Kerry O'Brien Short Course Meters Championship held in Walnut Creek, had the greatest attendance ever for the event. 579 swimmers competed over three days of unseasonal, near perfect summer-like temperatures. Despite long days, the meet was efficient and well officiated with conditions conducive to many record setting performances. In addition to 43 new Pacific Masters Pacific Masters Records, there were a number of National and World Records broken.

A highlight of the meet was a mixed medley relay heat of recent graduates of USMS’s Adult Learn to Swim programs. Shari Cruse’s Marin Aquatic Masters (MAQ) and Kim Elsbach’s Get Fit Davis Masters formed 3 relays to swim their first competition. The teams were comprised of swimmers who just a short while ago enrolled in ALTS programs hoping to become comfortable and safe in the water. .ALTS provided the instruction, nurturing and motivation to continue their swimming experience and here they were in a competition. The pool deck was packed with cheering fellow swimmers and anyone witnessing the event was filled awe for the competitors and with admiration the ALTS program. Read Shari’s account of the way MAQ has taken ALTS to new heights.

USMS National Records:

• Richard Burns (80-84): 100 Freestyle
• Brandon Fischer (30-34): 50 Breaststroke

Masters World Records:

• Brandon Fischer (30-34): 200 Breaststroke
• Laura Val (70-74): 400 IM, 200 Butterfly
• Tamalpais Aquatic Masters (320-359): Richard Burns, Peter Andersen, Ed Reed, Tony Ralphs, 200 Freestyle Relay, 400 Freestyle Relay, 800 Freestyle Relay, 200 Medley Relay.

View meet results, including individual high point and team scores here.

View an album of photos from the meet here.