By ROWENA PLETT

Staff writer

There’s probably only one place in Marion County where people can swim year round and that is at USD 408 Sports and Aquatic Center, 104 N. Thorpe St. in Marion.

Manager Michael Kirkpatrick said a Tabor College swim team would begin using the pool in October. Marion Elementary School students in grades three through five use the pool during school months as part of their physical education.

Lap swim is available to the public Monday through Friday from 5:15 to 8 a.m. and every day except Wednesday from 6 to 7 p.m.

Water aerobics are taught every day from 8 to 9 a.m.

Open swim hours are 4 to 6 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, 1 to 6 p.m. Saturday, and 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Birthday parties can be scheduled during open swim by calling to reserve a time at (620) 382-2384. Reservations include use of the commons area next to the pool.

Kirkpatrick said adults mainly use the pool to help maintain their activity and keep their joints loose.

“It’s easier on the joints to move in water than on a hard surface like concrete,” he said.

A single-day pass costs $2; four-month single pass, $81.57; one-year single pass, $244.69; and one-year family pass, $407.82.