Sports
January 27, 2012

Shrewsbury Pool facility to officially open tomorrow

The St. Vincent and the Grenadines Amateur Swimming Association (SVGASA) will tomorrow Saturday, January 29, open the Shrewsbury Pool, located at Ratho Mill.{{more}}

The pool, which is 24.5 metres long, will be officially opened with a ceremony from 1:00 pm.

President of the SVGASA, Andre Cadogan, told SEARCHLIGHT last Wednesday afternoon that the opening ceremony will take the form of brief remarks from the Minister of National Mobilisation, Youth, Sports etc. Frederick Stephenson, as well as a representative from National Properties Ltd., a representative from the National Sports Council, and Cadogan, in his capacity as head of the organisation.

Cadogan said that the all day affair will begin with fun games starting at 10:00 am, coupled with some competitive races.

“The whole idea about this Saturday is to show recognition and a big thank you to our donors of the pool, showcase the sport of swimming in a big way; bring the swimming family together and at the same time raise some funds,” Cadogan explained.

“We will be having games and water sports designed for children, adults and those who just want to have some fun in the water,” the SVGASA President commented.

Among the pool games in store are the Donut Race, T – Shirt Race, Beach Ball Race and the Doggy Paddle.

Buoyant about the opening of the facility, Cadogan is of the view that local swimmers will now be able to compete with their regional counterparts.

“With the facility, our swimmers will be able to train properly, as they will be going through their paces over the correct distances, which should enhance their chances when they venture out in competitions,” Cadogan stated.

Over the years, local swimmers had to rely on the benevolence of home owners and some hotels, which made their pools available for their use.

But Cadogan is optimistic that with the facility at the disposal of the SVGASA, there will be a new interest in the sport.

Cadogan expressed thanks to the National Properties Ltd. for allowing the Association to spearhead the refurbishing of the pool, which was lying abandoned for several years. (RT)