Three Ladysmith Chemainus Orcas Swim Club members are ready to put their months of training to the test at the Vancouver Island Regional Championships in Courtenay this weekend.
Representing the club at the four day meet are Aiden Jeffries, 9, Alicia Henderson, 10, and Aileen Humphreys, 15.
Each were required to meet time standards for the meet, which is being hosted by the Comox Valley Aquatic Club.
The veteran Humphrey’s will be looking to improve in her breaststroke events.
“I’m really excited for this meet because I’m going to try and get more national times,” she said.
Despite being the youngest of the three, Jeffries is no stranger to this level of competition and is looking forward to the 50 metre freestyle.
He said the key to a good race is a colder pool, a good meal and iTunes.
“I’ve just started listening to music and most of the time I’ll eat something good and make sure to drink water,” he said.
Humphrey’s opts for spaghetti and a glass of chocolate milk to make sure she’s fueled for a competition.
Henderson will be racing in her first regional championship and will no doubt gain experience.
“She’s come a long way. She really wasn’t super competitive and she still gets some nerves,” said Orcas head coach Brandon Gonzales.
“We’re still working over the experience of racing and making it so she doesn’t have to fight to stomach nerves.”
The next Orcas meet is in Campbell River at the end of the month.