Chatham Pool Sharks Hosting Farewell Event for Old YMCA Pool

Chatham YMCA Pool Sharks

Chatham, ON – Since 1970, the Pool at the Chatham YMCA has been home to the Chatham “Y” Pool Sharks swimming club. That’s all about to change this July as the new YMCA opens in Chatham. In recognition of this huge change, the Chatham Pool Sharks will be hosting an Alumni Time Trial event on Saturday May 7th to welcome back old club members, as well as to say farewell to the old pool.

The event invited former swimmers to come back for a final few laps of the pool, and will be followed by a dinner and dance at the Portuguese Hall. Musical entertainment will be provided by the O’Hara Brothers Band.

In a way, this event will serve as a club reunion, but will be filled with mixed emotions from coaches, swimmers, and volunteers who have spent hundreds, or thousands of hours at the old YMCA Pool.

“I’m looking forward to meeting up with the swimmers I have coached over the years. The old Y holds a lot of memories for me and this club, and I think this event is a great way for everyone to share their memories,” said Reg Johnston who has been a coach at with the Chatham Pool Sharks for more than three decades, and was recently recognized by Swim Ontario in 2010 with the Lea Bredschneider award which recognizes Ontario coaches, nominated by their peers, who have significantly contributed to improving swimming in Ontario.

As the new YMCA opens, so will a new era with the Chatham Pool Sharks who will also transfer to the new location. Founded more than 40 years ago, this organization has welcomed some of the areas best swimmers, and holds fond memories for many Chatham-Kent residents. The move to the new facility, although it holds mixed emotions, also holds positives for the young Chatham Pool Sharks members,

“Pool Sharks are all members of the YMCA and will benefit tremendously from the expanded programming and facilities, especially the 6-lane, 25 meter pool,” says John Gillis, Chatham Y Pool Sharks President. “The new pool will be a boost to the sport of swimming in Chatham-Kent.”

Tickets for the Dinner/Dance are $40 each and can be purchased at the YMCA or from John Gillis at 519-354-5529.