How do I become a member with LAPS?

If after a 2 week FREE trial period, you would like to join LAPS, please download the Southern Pacific Masters Association (SPMA) Membership Form, fill it out, and place it in the tool box on deck with your check made payable to SPMA.  This not only registers you to swim with LAPS, but it also registers you with US Masters Swimming which is required for insurance reasons and allows you to participate in sanctioned competitions.  You also get a bi-monthly subscription to the "USMS SWIMMER" Magazine, the USMS official publication. The annual cost is $40 a year and you must be 18 years or older to join. 

Download 2008 SPMA/LAPS Membership Form

What if I'm already a USMS member?

If you are already registered as a USMS swimmer, but you want to join LAPS, you can fill out the following form and drop it in the toolbox on deck (no annual fee required). 

LAPS Membership Form for Current USMS Swimmers Only

How much are LAPS dues?  And who do I make this check out too?

The dues are:
$480/year - Paid in full at the beginning of the first of any 12 continuous months
$135/quarter - Paid in full at the beginning of the first of any 3 continuous months
$55/month - Paid in full at the beginning of the month

We do not accept daily, weekly, partial months, etc. Dues paid for the current month are non refundable. Dues paid for future months are refundable if a request is made in advance and in writing to the Treasurer.

All dues are LATE by the 10th calendar day each of the month. Please be considerate as delinquent accounts cause us extra work. Place your check into the small metal box chained to the light pole near the men's locker room. A listing showing everyone’s payment status is available on the website under the “membership” tab. Make your check payable to: LOS ANGELES PENINSULA SWIMMERS INC.

What else should I get?

Swimming is actually a relatively low cost activity. Unlike some sports you don't have to spend hundreds of dollars on equipment to participate. However, there are some things you should get before you start swimming regularly:

Goggles. These are essential, since you'll be in the pool for more than an hour, and you'll need to be able to see in the water. Get ones that are watertight and fit your eyes comfortably but snugly.

Speedos or other formfitting swim suit. Recommended because they're designed to allow you to move through the water with less resistance.

Not required, but you may also want to bring ...

A swimming cap. Especially if you have medium to long hair, you'll want to keep it contained and protect it from the pool chemicals.

Fins and paddles. These can really help your technique and improve your speed, especially if you're a beginning swimmer. Kick boards and pull buoys are also useful and are readily available at the pool for use. 

Where can I find these items? 

A lot of us shop at H and H Jobbing Company:  http://www.hhjobbing.com/

Sports Chalet in Torrance (Torrance Blvd & Hawthrone Blvd) has a nice selection of googles.