FAQs

Must I compete?

The choice is yours. Many members choose not to compete. Note, however, that Masters swimming competitions are more about fun, participation and meeting personal goals than about winning. Most years, we host a swim meet in February. Our members have also competed at other Masters meets in Ottawa and at meets hosted by GLBT teams in Canada and the United States, as well as at the International Gay and Lesbian Aquatics championships and at the Outgames and the Gay Games.

Do I have to swim like a pro?

Not at all. Our swimmers have a wide range of abilities, from beginner to competitive. Lanes are organized according to ability from "A" to "D." Lane "A" is for the speedy Speedeaus, while lane "D" is for novices. The coach will help you find the right lane for you.

Do I have to know all of the swimming strokes and turns?

Although workouts do cover the four main strokes (freestyle, breaststroke, backstroke and butterfly), many swimmers substitute one stroke for another as needed. The coach will also help you learn new skills and we offer occasional technical clinics. For swimmers who haven't swum lengths before, our "Learn to Swim" program is a great place to start.

Are the coaches cruel and do they expect me to keep pace no matter what?

Masters swimming is about personal goals. You choose how fast and how hard you want to swim. Our head and volunteer coaches love both swimming and coaching and believe that swimming is important for members of the GLBT community. If you're honest with them about your goals and your limitations, they will help you choose the right lane or even modify a stroke if there's a medical concern. They're there to help you meet your goals, not theirs.

Do I have to compete in swim meets?

Only if you want to. While many Speedeaus enjoy competing, others only swim for fitness, fun or socialization.

Will I be outmatched during a swim meet?

Masters swim meets include swimmers of all abilities. Races are organized so that swimmers usually swim against others at a similar level.

Will we be the only GLBT team swimming at the meets?

The Rideau Speedeaus is a member of the International Lesbian and Gay Aquatics organization (IGLA). Member teams of IGLA host meets in North America, Europe and Australia. GLBT swimmers from Montreal, Toronto, Detroit and elsewhere often attend our meet, and we attends theirs.

Do I have to suck in my stomach or shave my body to fit in?

Only if you want to. Our swimmers come in all shapes and sizes and with varying amounts of hair.

Will I be cruised in the showers and locker-room?

The locker room is not a bathhouse. If you meet someone through the Speedeaus, that's great, but our members know there is a time and a place for everything.

Do I have to be gay, lesbian, bisexual or trans?

Although most of our members come from the GLBT community, we do have straight members as well. Swimmers of all persuasions are welcome.

Are women welcomed?

On average, approximately 30% of our members are women and we encourage more to join. We also have a "women-only lane" on Fridays. Our women's coordinator or female co-chair can answer any questions you may have.

Do the Rideau Speedeaus have a (social) life?

Absolutely! Members often head out to eat together after practice, especially on Fridays. The team also holds a Christmas party, a pot luck at the Annual General Meeting and other special events during the year. Many outings are organized on the spur of the moment, so don't be shy, you're always welcome to join us!