Five swimmers from Great Neck's Adult Swim Workouts recently participated in the Virginia Senior Games at Midtown Aquatic Center in Newport News. During the two-day meet, they won a total of 24 gold medals in their respective age groups! In many events, the swimmers also posted improved times. We are very proud of their accomplishments and praise them for all their hard work!

• Marianna Berkley, 92, won the 50 & 100 Breast, 50 Free, and 50 Back
• Jeanne Meredith, 86, won the 50 Back, 50, 100, 200 & 500 Free
• Al Newbury, 80, won the 50, 100 & 200 Back
• Joan Averette, 78, won the 50 &100 Breast, the 50 & 100 Free, and the 100 IM
• Arlien Stein, 72, won the 50, 100 & 200 Breast, 100 & 200 IMs, 100 Back, and the 50 Butterfly

A life jacket is a type of personal flotation device (PFD) that is designed to help a person float and keep their head out of the water, even if the person is very tired. The American Red Cross advises the following when choosing a life jacket:

• Make sure it is the right type for the activity.
• Make sure it is approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
• Make sure it fits properly. Check the label on the life jacket for weight limits. 
• Make sure it is in good condition. Check buckles and straps for proper function.

When you have selected a life jacket, be sure to practice putting it on in water and swimming with it on. When you practice, have a person with you who can help if you have difficulty. 

The most important tip about life jackets is simple: wear it! You should always wear a life jacket when you are on a boat or any other type of watercraft. You never know when something unexpected might happen that could cause you to enter the water. Inexperienced swimmers and young children should wear life jackets any time they are around water.