LAKEPORT — The Lake County Channel Cats invited the Hidden Valley Sharks to participate in the second annual Lake County Channel Cats Swim Meet on Aug. 13 at the Westshore Pool in Lakeport.
Although an unofficial meet, more than 200 swimmers and family members participated. Competitors used the meet as an opportunity to train for official USA Swimming meets.
“Official swim meets can be a little intimidating for first-time swimmers,” Channel Cats vice president Shelly Bell said. “Our meet is designed to introduce swimmers to ideas such as starting blocks, heats, lane assignments and starting buzzers.”
Membership in the Channel Cats has grown to more than 150 swimmers this season and meet practice is critical to developing a competitive team, according to Bell.
Community interest in the Lake County Channel Cats is at an all-time high, bolstered by the amazing achievements of the United States swimmers at this summer”s Olympic Games in Beijing, according to Bell.
“It was nice to see so many community members from around the county at the pool,” Bell said.
The Channel Cats are wrapping up their summer season next week with a “Fun Night” on Aug. 26 and the annual awards barbecue on Aug. 27. The community is invited to this event and it is expected that some of the individuals running for the three available seats on the Lakeport City Council will be in attendance.
The Channel Cats are also hosting their second annual Family Bingo Night on Sept. 5 at the Lakeport Senior Center to raise funds for the team. Businesses are encouraged to sponsor the Channel Cats and those who do will have signage at the pool.
The Lake County Channel Cats begin their fall season on Sept. 2. Registration is now under way for the fall team. The team fills on a first-come, first-serve basis. For questions regarding all Channel Cats activities, please call Jen Hanson at 263-3131.
