By Jim Walker
Signal Staff Writer
Nestled off the main drag on the western edge of Canyon Country, you can find an oasis of wet fun, not only when the heat is on, but all through the year. Opened in 2003, the Santa Clarita Aquatic Center, at 20850 Centre Pointe Parkway, features a 50-meter competition pool, 25-meter diving pool and large “fun pool” that offers water play equipment and a huge water slide, and it has a zero-depth entry (walkin style, like a beach). There is ample parking and deck space, as well as locker rooms.
Depending on the pool and activity, of course, the Aquatic Center is open to all ages, though those 12 and under must be accompanied by an adult at all times. There are family programs, adult programs, youth programs, swimming lessons, American Red Cross safety programs and team sports offered at various times during the year.
Recreation Supervisor Aquatics Taryn Flatt said, “The Santa Clarita Aquatic Center offers programs and fun for the whole family. From swim lessons for toddlers to competitive stroke instruction to water exercise classes, there is something available for everyone.”
Lessons, competitions and activities “The city’s swim lessons are always popular and the Aquatic Center is proud to teach residents of all ages how to swim,” Flatt said. “Our staff can also help you determine which level of lessons will benefit you or your family member most.”
The Santa Clarita Aquatic Center will be offering American Red Cross learn-to-swim lessons May 9 through 20. These are offered on four levels, including Introduction to Water Skills, Fundamental Aquatic Skills, Stroke Development and Stroke Improvement.
Three Adult/Teen Learn to Swim classes are offered in May, which are conducted by a trained lifeguard. You can work at your own pace. Pre-registration is required online. The Aquatic Center will offer Competitive Stroke classes April 11 through May 6. These will help you improve your strokes, turns and finishes. Level 4 swimming ability is required.
Reserved lap swims are offered at the Aquatic Center in one-hour sessions. Children ages 8 to 14 must be accompanied by an adult, in the water with them. All participants must be able to swim 25 yards continuously and may be asked to take a swim test. There are both reserved and drop-in sessions. Visit the website for details.
Both reserved and drop-in Recreational Swims are offered at various times. Participants must check in with the lifeguard, and must be 48 inches tall to go on the waterslide. Other rules apply. Visit the website for more details.
Water Exercise classes will be offered April 2 through May 31. There is no pre-registration, but you must purchase a Water Exercise Pass when you attend the first session. The cost depends on the number of classes you plan to attend.
The center hosts pick-up games of Adult Water Polo on Thursday nights. Bring your friends, but know that all swimmers must be able to swim 25 yards continuously, and may be asked to perform a swim test.
The Aquatic Center offers Underwater Hockey for ages 16 and up on Tuesday evenings April 5 through May 31. These coed and friendly competitions are great for cardio, and all equipment can be provided for you.
The center is also the site of several Swim the distance challenges throughout the year, hosted by the 100 Mile Club. These have predetermined distances and completion dates, and prizes are awarded. The current challenge began on Feb. 1 and ends March 31.
Egg hunts
Two sessions of Splash & Dash Egg Hunts will be offered at the Aquatic Center on Saturday,
April 16. Children of all ages can collect eggs in the Waterslide Pool. Reserve free tickets to be sure you get in.
“The Aquatic Center is a wonderful place to spend your summer days out of the heat and in the water,” Flatt said. Visit santa-clarita.com/ Aquatics or call (661) 250-3740 for the latest on available classes and programs.”
