Swimmers Guide: Bracknell Leisure Centre

Bracknell and Wokingham S.C. Masters Open Meet

A nice big leisure centre which has two 25m 6 lane pools side-by-side. The competition pool is shallow at one end (1.4m) and deep the other(3m)with the shallow end used for the start due to diving boards at the deep end. The training/learner pool is shallow both ends. The competition pool is kept cool for the competition but the continuous warm up/swim down pool is warm.

Changing rooms - single sex with communal locker area. Lockers £1 (redeemable) in 2008

The limited spectator bench seating is along the poolside but 'fenced off'. It does mean that swimmers can sit with spectators, but it can get very crowded. Swimmers can also sit on bench type seating on the poolside.

The centre has a sports/exhibition hall

Eating Facilities - good Cafe/Restaurant serving hot and cold food with plenty of seating. The restaurant can get extremely busy especially if there's a function on.

Car park - large & free, but very busy.

The meet is normally one the first short course events of the year and the start list is quite big. It has all short course events up to 200m including IM.

This is a "no Cards" event. You have to 'sign in' when you arrive and then the 'Start lists' are posted up on the poolside. The results are posted quickly after the races which is really good. Programme £2 in 2008.

Positives

• Well run event.
• Great season opener with all events up to 200m catered for.
• Spectators can sit with swimmers.
• Lovely warm swim down pool.

Negatives

• Crowded car park.

Overall - This meet is really well run, although busy at times. The pool is said not to be quick but I have managed Pb's, so I can't agree. It has a gutter at the deep end turn (which breaststrokers appreciate). It's a great short course 'season opener' and really good for decathlon points too.