Fort Dodge tried a new format for the Gary Winkler Invitational last year, and it was a big hit.

The Dodgers will continue their preliminary-timed finals for the second straight time on Saturday.

“We were the first team in the state to do a prelim-based (invite) final,” said Fort Dodge head coach Ashley Beaumont. “All the teams loved it, and it helped draw some bigger teams here (Cedar Falls and Linn-Mar will participate).

“It really ran smoothly the first time around.”

Joining the Dodgers, Cedar Falls and Linn-Mar will be Algona, Perry, Storm Lake, Spencer, Sioux City and Carroll.

The new format was a driving force for the Dodgers, as they claimed the team title for the first time in school history, capturing three events.

“Winning it last year, has really helped the girls, as they’re pumped to bring home the title again,” Beaumont said. “Our girls are sitting well in the seeding, as they look strong with several top times and a second (place) as well.”

The diving portion of the Winkler Invitational took place on Friday night.

Saturday’s action will begin at 11 a.m. with the prelims and the finals will take place at 6 p.m. in the Dodger Pool.