SVGASA realizes dream of brand new swimming pool facility

The St Vincent and the Grenadines Amateur Swimming Association (SVGASA) had one of its dreams realized, when, last Saturday, it formally opened the Shrewsbury Pool facility.{{more}}

The facility, which was refurbished at a cost of close to EC$100,000, is located on property owned by National Properties Limited at Ratho Mill.

Through the initiative of the Executive of the SVGASA, led by President Andre Cadogan, the pool facility was transformed from a toad-infested structure, overrun by vegetation and the like.

Work began in earnest last August, and the association, ably assisted by several donors, who gave in cash and kind, were able to see the facility to this phase of completion.

However, the pool, which measures 24.5 metres, falls short by 0.5 metres of what is internationally accepted.

Concern about this was expressed by Minister of National Mobilisation, Culture, Youth, Sports, etc. Frederick Stephenson, who was last Saturday’s featured speaker.

Stephenson asked the SVGASA to correct the deficiency, so that St Vincent and the Grenadines could host regional and international competitions, and for the local swimmers to train over the correct distances.

The pool is 6.87 meters wide and ranges from a depth of 1.1 meters to 1.6 meters.

Apart from the pool, the attending structures include a kitchenette, female and male washrooms, a store room, limited provision for seating and a canopy.

Cadogan, in outlining the use of the facility, said Saturdays will be the busiest day.

He informed those present that from 9:00 a.m. to noon, there will be the Learn to Swim programme, to be carried out by the various swim instructors.

Cadogan said that noon to 2:00 p.m. will be set aside for the free classes for students from the Windward side of the island, and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., those in training for the Carifta Championships will have the use of the facility.

The adult swimmers’ slot is set from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m.

Also addressing last Saturday’s ceremony were President of the National Olympic Committee Trevor Bailey, Chairman of the National Sports Council Carlton James, and Leroy Llewellyn, who represented National Properties Limited, who all commended the efforts of the Swimming Association and expressed the hope for a rise in the level of performance and interest in the sport.

Saturday’s Swim Fest also included a host of fun races and competitive races, with medals presented to the top finishers. (RT)