“Swimming is Not Only About Medals, It Builds Discipline And Confidence”

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GRAND BAHAMA, THE BAHAMAS – The wait is almost over for Grand Bahama’s competitive swimmers and their coaches.

The nation’s second city is closer than ever to getting a brand-new 50-meter olympic-sized pool as well as a warm down pool, cafeteria, gym, and much more.

It’ll all be a part of the soon to be constructed Grand Bahama Aquatics Center where ground was broken at the facility Thursday afternoon.

Our Sasha Lightbourne fills us in.

It’s been a long time coming but a 50-meter olympic-sized pool in Grand Bahama is now becoming a reality after ground was broken on the new Grand Bahama Aquatics Center at the Grand Bahama Sports Complex on Thursday.

Prime Minister Philip Davis made a promise back in 2023 following Team Bahamas’ fifth consecutive win at the CARIFTA games in Curacao and on Thursday, he shared his loved for the sport and apologized to Grand Bahamians for the long wait.

“This facility will match international standards; it will be capable of hosting major regional and international meets and it will give Bahamian swimmers a chance to race at home in a pool that prepares them for the fastest lanes in the world; I know this day has taken time and I want to thank you for your patience” – PM Davis

In March last year, government received over 80 acres of land, worth over $6 million from the Grand Bahama Port Authority for the creation of the aquatics compex. GBPA Co-Chairman Sarah St. George expressed her joy that this project is now underway.

“Its an investment in our youth in good health and in the future of Grand Bahama” – Sarah St. George

“We at the port authority champion youth and sports wholeheartedly especially our CARIFTA athletes each year we assist families with travel and accommodations and we have watched our young Bahamians grow into disciplined confidant and highly accomplished athletes “ – Sarah St. George

Bahamas Aquatics First Vice President Lynne Fraino shared that swimming goes beyond just being a sport.

“Swimming is not only about medals; its not only about records; its not only about the Olympics; swimming opens doors it builds discipline, confidence and lifelong opportunity; swimming builds people and it builds futures; to our competitive swimmers, i hope tHis aquatic facility stands as a reminder that your country believes in you” – Lynne Fraino

Once the remarks were wrapped up, the grounds were blessed, and shovels went into the ground.

Our News understands construction is expected to begin immediately.