The Jamestown YMCA will hold Para Prep Swimming on Wednesdays from 6-7 p.m. beginning July 10 at its Jamestown location.

Submitted photo

The Jamestown YMCA recently announced the establishment of its Para Prep Swimming Program.

The program will be held Wednesdays from 6-7 p.m. beginning on July 10 in the Jamestown YMCA’s upper pool.

Para Prep is designed for individuals with physical impairments who are interested in competitive swimming. Swimmers must have an impairment that meet international Para standards. A complete list is located, https://www.teamusa.org/US-Paralympics/Athlete-Classifications.

Participants do not need true swimming skills, but should be comfortable in the water and want to work toward being able to competitively swim. The program will focus on teaching, refining and adapting the four competitive strokes and accompanying skills based on athletes’ ability. All adaptations will conform to the World Para Swimming rules and regulations.

“Four years ago I attended my first Para Clinic in Buffalo. I was looking for technical help with one of our Jets. The guidance, motivation, and encouragement I experienced had me hooked,” Coach Maria Roehmholdt said. “We currently have two Jets who compete Para. Our athletes have competed in Ohio, Georgia and California. The combination of Para and able-bodied swimmers has made the athletes and team better.”

“I think this is going to be a great addition to the program at the Y,” said Jason Chinni, aquatic director. “Our Jets team has always been all inclusive, but having a true Para program should open competitive swimming up to more people. Our goal is to work toward launching an official Para team next spring. This program will help start interested participants down the path of a great lifelong sport.”

Participants can try the program twice at no cost. After the second visit there is a $4 drop-in fee to help cover cost of lifeguards. The program will continue in the fall, but days and times are yet to be determined.