Lynn pool showcases new lane ropes

Alive St James showcased its new Anti Wave Lane Ropes at West Norfolk Swimming Club’s Open Spring Meeting at the weekend.Thanks to the support from the College of West Anglia (CWA) and West Norfolk Swimming Club (WNSC), the pool has been able to purchase the most up-to-date ropes, replacing the previous ones that had become very worn.The ropes were developed for the Sydney Olympics back in 2000 and have changed competitive swimming ever since.They will also be a valuable asset for the pool’s new ‘Aqua Ease’ program, which is being launched soon.By minimising water movement, they’ll create a more stable environment for participants using the program’s innovative AI-powered exercise plans.Siobhan Cleeve, head of leisure at Alive West Norfolk, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the College of West Anglia and West Norfolk Swimming Club for their continued support, which has made these brilliant new Anti Wave lane ropes possible.”Their partnership has been invaluable over the last few years, helping us improve our pool offerings, and most importantly supporting a range of aquatic activities in our borough. “These new ropes are a fantastic example, offering a superior swimming experience for everyone, especially the West Norfolk Swimming Club. “This latest investment is a testament to the college and club’s commitment to supporting our community and we’re truly thankful for their ongoing partnership.”CWA has sponsored swimming at Alive West Norfolk for the past three years.In 2023 their sponsorship allowed the club to buy 60 new buoyancy aids for all needed in the water, which have been such a success and so appreciated. CWA are always keen to help support young people and adults to gain more confidence in the water and develop key life skills.Paul Harrison, CWA’s executive director of finance and resources said: “We’re so proud to see that our sponsorship of Alive Swimming this year has enabled the purchase of this new equipment. “It was lovely to meet some of the swimmers who are using it. As a part of the community in King’s Lynn, it’s lovely to give a little back where we can.“WNSC have been based with us at St James, Downham Leisure and Oasis for more than 15 years. They have gained a strong reputation for developing young swimmers through professional and structured coaching in a competitive and supportive environment.Their programme aims to maximise the potential of each swimmer and help them become the best they can be whilst enjoying the process of learning and improving in and around the pool.It is designed to ensure swimmers are ready to perform and excel in a competitive environment be that at Club, County, Regional or National level.Simon Rose, chair of WNSC, said: “The new Anti Wave Lane Ropes are a significant upgrade on the previous set which after almost 20 years were beyond the end of their serviceable life. “The bright, new, modern ropes will reduce surface disturbance across the pool, enhancing the experience for swimmers as they race.”We are proud of our long-standing relationship with Alive West Norfolk and are grateful to them and CWA for their support in making their purchase possible.”