Editor’s note: The article previously mentioned that it was the Grand Forks Recreation Centre that is celebrating its 25th anniversary, but has been changed to the Aquatic Centre.
The Grand Forks Aquatic Centre will be celebrating 25 years with coffee and cupcakes at the centre all day on Wednesday, June 20.
In celebration of 25 years, prices for entry will also be rolled back to those of 1987.
For adults, prices roll back to $2.50, youth are $1.75, children and seniors (60 and older) are $1.25, and the family deal is $6.00.
On Sept. 9, 1981, the Aquatic Project Committee gave the initial approval towards the $1.5 million plans for an aquatic centre.
In conjunction with the Nov. 21 election of 1981, Grand Forks city council asked the Ministry of Municipal Affairs to hold a referendum on the proposed aquatic centre.
The proposed centre included a four-lane, 25-metre pool, shallow leisure water and training area, a 10-foot (120 inches) diameter whirlpool with ramp, a sauna, change rooms, a public viewing area, staff offices and an exercise area.
Prior to approval, Ray Deptuck and Mike Keogh of Grand Forks flew to Saskatoon, Sask. on Sept. 3, 1981.
Their plan was to cycle from Saskatchewan back to Grand Forks to raise funds towards the aquatic centre.
Averaging 100 miles (161 kilometres) and roughly 13 to 14 hours per day, the pair journeyed through the 786 miles (1,265 kilometres) of land.
Deptuck stated it wasn’t something either of them would do again, but it was worth the trouble “if you’re doing it for something like this.”
In total, the pair raised around $8,000 and arrived back in Grand Forks on Sept. 12.
Since then, the aquatic centre has included programs for children and adults, from fitness programs to swimming classes, or first aid courses to leadership award programs.
