Local swimmers will be making a splash next month, when they are finally allowed to jump in to the new outdoor pool.
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The 50 metre Olympic-grade pool at Griffith Regional Aquatic Leisure Centre will open to the public on February 14, bringing to an end a project set in motion more than five years ago.
And according to Craig Tilston, life member of the Griffith Swimming Club, there is not a lot that will feel better than that first dive in.
"If I could get in it today I would," he laughed.
Mr Tilston said the new pool will make swimming a more enjoyable experience for casual and serious swimmers alike.
"People want to swim in an outdoor pool, and we haven't had that for quite a few years ... as soon as we're allowed in we'll be in."
Currently, recreational swimmers, lap swimmers, aqua classes and swimming lessons all have to compete for room in the centre's indoor pool, but Mr Tilston is hopeful this will become a thing of the past.
"Pool space was always a big topic," he said.
"Having all this extra space combined with the existing pool inside, is going to make things easier for everyone."
He also said the pool will help serious swimmers with their training, by getting them used to the longer length.
"It's a lot different to a 25 metre pool, you can get into a rhythm and keep going for longer. It actually will help make them stronger and help build fitness."
The new outdoor pool will allow the swimming club to hold regional swimming carnivals in Griffith, which previously had to be held elsewhere in places like Wagga.
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Mr Tilston congratulated Griffith City Council for the long awaited completion of the project.
The pool is part of a $26.5 million sports precinct, funded by the Australian Government, the NSW Government, and Griffith City Council.
It also includes the construction of new change rooms and toilets, an accessibility ramp into the pool, and a new pump room.
Some School Swimming Carnivals are expected to take place at the pool in early February, however it will not be open to the general public until February 14.