The Circle Square Foundation celebrated the groundbreaking for the new aquatic center, Florida FAST (Florida Aquatics Swimming and Training), on October 27 with community members and dignitaries.
The programs at FAST will include swim lessons, drowning prevention, aquatic therapy and fitness, and life-saving water training for lifeguards and fire and rescue personnel. There is also an indoor fitness facility for optimal dryland athletic training. The covered pool—called a natatorium—will feature an indoor 10-lane 50 meter/25 yd competition pool, an outdoor 8-lane 50 meter/25 yd/25-meter competition pool, and a splash pool with lounge seating and shade.
FAST will provide a wide variety of programs beyond recreation and competition. County Commissioner Michelle Stone spoke to the plans for the community involvement, “Our local Marion County Fire Rescue Department will be able to use this facility for training projects.”
U.S. Olympic Swim Team Coach Gregg Troy spoke to his involvement with the facility’s planning, “I put some of my input into the facility’s planning. I really believe FAST will be one of the five best swimming facilities in the country.”
FAST will be located across the street from the Ocala Recreation Sportsplex in Southwest Ocala. With the closing of the Newton A. Perry Aquatic Complex at the College of Central Florida, FAST will become home to local high schools and numerous local aquatics programs initially organized by the non-profit organization Ocala Aquatics. FAST is expected to open in late 2021.
For more information about FAST, visit floridafast.com.
Check out more local entertainment like this at 352preview.com.
