The previous days’ temperatures had raised hopes that we could finally earn our first cold-water performance grades this year. Unfortunately, the Elbe did not oblige: the water was 5.5°C. Nevertheless, most of us thoroughly enjoyed the races and went home with plenty of memories.
Distances again ranged from 100 metres to 1 kilometre. All except the 250 metres were in still water. The 100 and 250 metres earned participation points only; the 500, 750 and 1,000 metres were races.
Seven PKO swimmers entered the kilometre. Petr Tomášek crossed the line first, for the fifth time this year. Petr Hubal took fourth. Zdenda Tlamicha also made the top ten in eighth, losing a fierce duel with the head of Fides by a touch. Zdeněk, next time it has to go the other way — or you’re walking home from Choceň! :)
Nine of our swimmers contested the two 750-metre heats. Radka Srbová was the best of them in tenth, followed by Tomáš Prokop in eleventh and Míša Štěpán in twelfth.
Six PKO swimmers entered the Elbe for the 500 metres. Honza Podlaha achieved our best placing, finishing fifth.
As usual in Hradec, our club was represented among the officials too: Honza Novák, pictured, served as chief referee.
Full results, including points, are linked at the top of the article.
Next weekend brings Saturday’s race in Choceň, followed by our club meeting in the clubhouse on Sunday at 9:30.