Leesburg hosts grand opening for new H.O. Dabney Aquatic Center

Paul Ryan
·2 min read

LEESBURG — While a chilly breeze kept some away, those in the know splashed in the balmy 84-degree water during the grand opening of the H.O. Dabney Aquatic Center on Saturday in Leesburg.

"We've done a decent amount of projects, but more people hit me up and asked 'When's that pool opening?'" said Travis Rima, recreation director for the city. "We are really excited to share the facility with the community. We're glad to get it open."

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Things kicked off as Mayor Mike Pederson rode down the tall corkscrew water slide — several times. Soon everyone was lining up on the staircase waiting for their turn.

If you want to go fast down the slide, Rima has a tip: Cross your arms and feet and lift your butt.

"It's an amazing facility. I'm really impressed," Pederson said. "It might be the nicest pool I've ever seen."

A group of teenagers hopped in the pool and quickly discovered the hoops set up for water basketball.

"It's harder to dunk," said J'Dyn Fox as he and his friends headed for the slide after the pick-up game.

Recreation Manager Brian Andreichuk said the facility will be open from noon to five every day during Spring Break, which goes through this Friday, and then again on weekends. He's proud of the facility, which he says has something for everyone, even lounge chairs for people who don't want to get wet.

The lifeguard crew keeping watch all around the facility is made up of high school and college kids.

"I'm definitely looking for more. We have some open spots for lifeguards," said Andreichuk.

Pederson, like most who hopped in the pool, was reluctant to leave the water.

"I'm a swimmer, so I'm excited to see it open. I'm excited for our entire community and I hope everybody enjoys," he said.

This article originally appeared on Daily Commercial: Leesburg hosts grand opening for new H.O. Dabney Aquatic Center