CARY, N.C. -- Organizers of the 14th Annual National Black Heritage Championship Swim Meet in Cary say this event is like Christmas… only this ones in May.
Vincent Lyde went from being a parent of a swimmer into being a judge. He said it’s a role he’s grown into.
"This is an exciting event. We have kids in here who are novice swimmers, who are just learning, to swimmers who are currently swimming in college -- Division I swimmers and anything in-between,” said Lyde.
The same could literally be said for Candace Cooper, who grew up at this event, and now hopes to make the World Games in Rio this summer.
Cooper said this swim meet is about showing kids that there are swimmers out there like her -- people who love to swim -- and to introduce them to different types of swimming levels.
"Teach them that it's out there, especially people who are African-American and who are minorities,” said Cooper. “We just want to show them that we can swim."
Cooper added that the event is a place where all of the swimmers can feel welcomed.
"It's a great opportunity for over 600 swimmers to come and really build a friendship, and also for the parents to come and have a great time to share this incredible sport and to see these kids grow,” said event organizer Lisa Webb.
"It's literally like a family reunion every year,” said Cooper. “You see the same people and you mark it on your calendar. Memorial Day Weekend, most people aren't thinking let's come to Cary, North Carolina, but to me it's like coming home."
They’re making memories while making a splash.