Aqautic center helps Holloman dive into summer

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Daniel Liddicoet
  • 49th Wing Public Affairs
HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. --  The Holloman Aquatic Center reopened for the summer May 25. For many Airmen and their families on base, the opening of the pool affords a fantastic opportunity to cool down and relax during some of the hottest months of the year.

The opening of the aquatic center also coincides with the Air Force's Critical Days of Summer campaign, reminding all of us about the importance of safe and responsible decision-making during a season that is traditionally high in accidents.

Airmen are encouraged to bear these safety concerns in mind and strive toward a goal of zero preventable mishaps this summer at the pool.

According to Ted Brinegar, Holloman Outdoor Recreation director, maintenance of the aquatic center is a team effort that ensures the pool is safe and operable at all times. Holloman Outdoor Recreation takes care of the lifeguards assigned to the pool, while the 49th Civil Engineer Squadron ensures pool filters and chemicals are re-filled and at the proper levels.

"Coming to the pool has been a great way for me to relax during the hot weather," says Sarah Shofner, a Holloman Aquatic Center employee. "I don't swim, but I still love to come down and hang out."

This year the aquatic center is also hosting a variety of events and activities for Airmen and their families to enjoy. One of the newest activities available for Airmen will be kayaking lessons held every Thursday.

Brinegar, who is one of two kayaking instructors at the aquatic center, takes pride in the comprehensive nature of the kayaking lessons that will be offered weekly. The lessons cover basic paddling and self-rescue techniques that will prepare students for real whitewater scenarios.

In addition to kayaking, the aquatic center will also offer dive-in movies every other Friday that will feature kid-friendly films that allow viewers to watch from inside the pool. As a fun alternative to watching movies in theatres, the dive-in movies will provide a relaxing family environment for everyone.

"This pool is the only water around for us," says Brinegar. "It's the real oasis, definitely the place to be in the summer."

Team Holloman can look forward to the aquatic center's Olympic-sized pool complete with two diving boards and a water slide, Tuesday through Sunday from 12 to 6 p.m. The pool is free and open to all military ID card holders on base.

For more information on the Holloman Aquatic Center, call (575) 572-3639.