History
Edmonton's first gay and lesbian swim practice was held in conjunction with Calgary's Different Strokes Swim Club on January 9, 1999. This practice, organized by Dan MacGregor from Calgary and Darren Bates and Jeff Goth from Edmonton, welcomed swimmers from both Edmonton and Calgary.
Making Waves Swim Club was organized by Mike Stansberry and others shortly after the University of Alberta practice. The Club is now run by an annually elected volunteer executive.
Competition
Many of our swimmers have learned that masters swim meets are a lot fun. Over the years Making Waves has participated in local Edmonton area masters meets, as well as provincial, national and international meets across Canada, the United States, Europe and Australia. The Club hosts its own annual swim meet in February and has co-hosted the Canadian Masters Swimming Championships and was involved in organizing the swimming component of the World Masters Games.
Practices
Since our first practice there have been hundreds more. Swimmers from novice to advanced get together twice a week to swim at their own pace doing workouts designed by a coach.
Socializing
In addition to the fun and fitness of masters swimming, being a member of Making Waves also involves social activities. Getting together for coffee after practice is common and the club has annual social traditions including New Years Day tobogganing and a summer bbq.