Something incredible happened on June 20.
Aquatic centers across the globe banded together to attempt to break a record for the “World’s Largest Swim Lesson.” This sensational annual event brings together communities from every corner of the planet to boost water safety awareness. Talk about making a splash!
Marina Wells, the passionate General Manager of Pelican Bay Aquatic Center in Edmond, Oklahoma, radiates pride as she shares her team’s addition of 132 participants to the “World’s Largest Swim Lesson” day official count.
As someone who has been heavily involved in aquatics all her life, she has heard about this opportunity in newsletters and from other industry professionals for years. However, in 2024, she made moves. Her facility joined forces with other SFC aquatic centers and venues worldwide in a bid to make a difference and lead the cause of water safety and education.
“The initiative was a no-brainer for us. It’s a unique and inspiring way to raise global awareness about the importance of water safety and swim lessons,” says Wells. “Being part of this gave an extraordinary touch to an ordinary weekday. A little something to make that day special for our youngsters.”
As the numbers come in, it’s clear that we’re talking about more than just figures here. These stats symbolize lives that could be saved from the preventable tragedy of drowning, and they reflect a growing global effort to prioritize aquatic safety. The reality is sobering – According to the American Red Cross, drowning is the leading cause of death for children in the United States up to four years old, and the third leading cause for ages 5-19. That’s why joining an event like this is more than just a step towards safety; it’s a big move towards making swimming a universal skill, accessible to everyone.
“It’s kind of a universal language, right?” Wells emphasizes, “If you can swim on the other side of the world, you can swim here.” This spirit encapsulates the essence of the event – unity in diversity, coming together to ensure no child is left without the skills to enjoy the water safely.
On the World’s Largest Swim Lesson day, every child at Pelican Bay Aquatic Center was not just a swim student but became a contributing ‘record holder.’ They were rewarded ribbons to commemorate their participation, and their handprints and signatures adorned a banner destined for a place of honor at the venue.
For Wells and her team, it wasn’t about grand events or disruptions to regular schedules. Instead, it was about making lessons special that day, about the kids, their safety, and the promise of a safer tomorrow for everyone who steps into the water.
“The goal is to reach more and more people every year. With the ‘World’s Largest Swim Lesson,’ we’re not just teaching swimming; we’re saving lives, one stroke at a time.”
