Ugu District Aquatics Hosts Successful Free Water Safety Program
Last week, Ugu District Aquatics organized an impressive free water safety and learn-to-swim program at the Marburg municipal pool and Port Edward Primary swimming pool. This initiative, aimed at promoting water safety in the community, attracted participants of all ages, showcasing a strong commitment to ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to learn essential swimming skills.
The program was a resounding success, with about 124 swimmers visiting the Marburg pool over three days. The diverse group of participants ranged from a four-year-old learning to embrace the water for the first time to a 60-year-old enthusiast taking a dip.
With four professional instructors present, attendees were guided through crucial water safety fundamentals. “Our focus was on pool entry and exit techniques, safety tips for being around water, as well as foundational skills such as floating, blowing bubbles, and kicking,” explained Mandy Koegelenberg, a representative from Ugu District Aquatics. For more advanced learners, there were opportunities to explore freestyle swimming, including diving to the bottom of the pool in the deeper area.
This program wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Swimming South Africa and KZN Aquatics, who assisted with funding, and a special thank you was extended to the principal of Port Edward Primary for providing a well-maintained venue.
In a show of community spirit, swimmers not only learned vital skills, but many also formed friendships, making for a joyful atmosphere at the pools. Attendees like Baphiwe Ntuli and Khethelo Bhane were overheard laughing and enjoying their time in the water alongside experienced instructors like Sinentonkozo Cele, who was seen teaching with enthusiasm and dedication.
Mandy expressed optimism for the future, revealing plans for another similar initiative during the April school holidays. “We are keen to continue this valuable program and spread the joy of swimming and water safety even further,” she stated.
This free water safety initiative exemplifies how community programs can foster learning and inclusivity, ensuring that from a young age, all children can confidently engage with water—a precious resource in our beautiful South Africa. Stay tuned for more exciting activities from Ugu District Aquatics!
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Tags: #SouthAfrica #UguDistrict #Swimming #Community #Tourism
