In the relative peace and quiet of the Mission Leisure Centre pool, 71-year-old Isabelle Zaoral finishes another lap before taking a quick breather.
The Mission senior has lived in the community for more than 40 years, but has only been coming to the afternoon seniors swim for the past three. She started attending regularly after deciding to learn a new technique.
“I took swimming lessons for freestyle. I was the oldest one, but for me it was a challenge. I come once a week now and practice my skills.”
Zaoral knew how to swim before taking lessons but said she could only do the breaststroke.
“So, now I can do backstroke and freestyle.”
But why was she drawn to the pool?
“This is open all-year round and it’s somewhere to go. It’s safe and you meet people and it’s fun,” said Zaoral.
It also helps her stay in shape, but it isn’t her only activity. She also walks regularly and has her hands full taking care of the large yard at her home.
Zaoral said it’s important to keep busy.
“I’ve always been active, all my life, so I intend to continue that and swimming is one of those things where I don’t have to depend on someone to come with me. I can just get up off my couch and come.”
