The Get Grenada Swimming initiative is hosted by the Grenada Youth Adventurers and has so far taught ten thousand people to swim. Deb Eastwood, the Director of the non-profit organization Grenada Youth Adventurers, says that for the first time, lessons were offered until 6 pm in the evening at ALL locations to make sure that working adults had a chance to attend.
She wanted to give huge thanks for all her Site Supervisors who are the keys to making this event successful. She also stated, “We loved seeing more adults and were also very excited to have a new location in Duquense, St. Mark.”
The swim week almost did not happen this year and Deb Eastwood gives gratitude to Silversands (a major sponsor), Budget Marine, Ramdhannys, Ting/Star Malt, IAL, Island Water World, LAE Cottages, SIFH Fish House, Spice Isle Marine, and Waggy-T all for making it happen.
According to Ms. Deb, “There are many reasons to swim. Besides being fun and even relaxing, it has many health benefits. It is an excellent way to work your entire body and cardiovascular system. An hour of swimming burns almost as many calories as running, (without the impact on your bones and joints). This is very important for seniors who may have arthritis or other health conditions.
Swimming increases your heart rate without stressing your body, tones muscles, and builds strength and endurance. It also boosts confidence and self-esteem as individuals become more comfortable and proficient in the water.
Silversands was a major partner of this year’s effort. Francine Stewart, Director of Sales at Silversands Grenada stated, “The management of Silversands recognizes the value of having a swimming nation. We are an island nation that is surrounded by the pristine Caribbean Ocean, offering some of the best tourism tours. We believe that swimming should be a life skill and with the support from Silversands, the great work of the National Learn to Swim Week can continue into the future. We want to thank Ms. Deb for her dedication to this venture.”
Everyone from 4 years up to seniors will have the chance to continue with free lessons on Saturdays at these locations:
- Birchgrove – St Andrew 9 am (Mello’s Complex) Lovell Alexander – 416-1226
- Cabier Beach – Crochu, St. Andrew 9 am, Abigail Fletcher, 449-6091
- Carriacou – Paradise Beach, 9 am, Catherine Patrice, 459-1924
- Duquense, St. Mark, 10 am on Sundays, Omari, 459-5338
- Grand Anse – Umbrella’s Restaurant, 9 am – 11 am, Deb Eastwood, 404-5237
- Grand Mal Beach – Across from SOGs, 10 am, Kevin Phillips, 421-1835
- Grenada Marine, Corinth, 9 am – Catherine John, 459-2393
- Grenville – Telescope Beach, 9 am, Shaniqua Cobb 421-1057
- Gouyave – St. Johns, Near Fish Market, 12 pm – 2 pm, Sharm Ashton, 422-9893
- Petite Martinique – Morang Beach, 1 pm – 3 pm, Mary Benjamin 418-2261
- Sauteurs – St. Patrick, Breakwater, 10 am, Damani Bruno 410-2394
- Waltham Beach, St. Mark, Korah Ashby 410-0208