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SAANICHNEWS Friday, November 2014 December 14, 5, 2014
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Swim meet a ‘cracker’ for economy Travis Paterson News staff
The annual Christmas Cracker at Saanich Commonwealth Place, one of the biggest swim meets in Canada, is expected to draw 700-plus swimmers to the District this weekend. Hosted by Pacific Coast Swimming, the event serves as an economic boost as hundreds more friends and family from across the Pacific Northwest arrive for the fun, said PCS director of athletic development Rod Barratt. “It is very competitive at the top end – you’re going to see some elite times,” Barratt said. “The Christmas Cracker usually produces a few of Canada’s top-10 finishes from the year – but it’s also unique because clubs bring the whole team.” With no minimum time standard, the Cracker creates a carnival atmosphere. Swimmers of all levels gather at Commonwealth Place, which is set up with three 25-metre pools going at once, a rare competition configuration. And of course, every swimmer receives a Christmas cracker, handmade by the 100-plus local volunteers helping with the event. “So many competitions in sports are so serious, it’s part of why we started this 12 years ago, to bring a fun aspect,” Barratt said. PlEASE SEE: Cracker of a swim meet, Page A26
Travis Paterson/News staff
Wish upon a star Bianca Chu places her love “wish” on a tree during a holiday celebration in front of the MacPherson Library at the University of Victoria on Tuesday. “It’s a time when students are killing themselves with exams and final papers, and Santa comes and gives out hot chocolate and it makes everything better,” said Chu, an assistant for the Centre for Athletics, Recreation and Special Abilities. Hundreds of litres of hot chocolate was served, while many people lined up for photos for a photo with Santa on his sleigh.
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