Blackpool Polar Bears, a club that has grown from a modest 8 members in 2000 to a thriving community of over 125 members, is a testament to our collective efforts and commitment. Our partnership with Blackpool Council, which grants us exclusive access to Moor Park Pool every Sunday from 9am to 12pm, is a result of our shared vision and dedication. This collaboration, complete with certified swimming instructors and lifeguards, is a reflection of our club's growth and success.
We are affiliated with Special Olympics Great Britain (SOGB) and proudly represent the North West Region at regional and national events. We are also affiliated with the National Association of Swimming Clubs for the Handicapped (NASCH), which ensures we have the necessary public liability insurance and provides coverage for all our specialist equipment.
At Blackpool Polar Bears, the safety and well-being of our members are not just priorities; they are our core values. Our committee and in-water volunteer helpers, all DBS-cleared through Special Olympics Great Britain, ensure a secure and nurturing environment for all. This commitment to safety is a testament to our club's dedication to each and every member.
Our journey to competitive success began in 2005, when we made our debut at the UK Special Olympics Summer Games in Glasgow. Five of our members made us proud by clinching a total of 11 medals, including 3 gold, 5 silver, and 3 bronze. Since then, our swimmers have been a regular presence at every scheduled championship and at Special Olympics and NASCH regional swimming competitions throughout the year. These achievements are a testament to our members' hard work and dedication and inspire us to aim higher.
In 2019, one of our swimmers represented Great Britain at the World Special Olympics, and our coach, Emma Inglis, was the Head Coach for the GB swimming team at the event. We repeated this achievement in 2023 with another one of our swimmers.
The club also hosts two galas per year, organises trips and parties, and holds an Annual Presentation, at which all attending members receive a trophy in recognition of their achievements.
We follow the National Plan for Teaching Swimming, run by the Institute of Swimming, and regularly award certificates and badges to our swimmers. Additionally, we attend adventure holiday weekends at the Calvert Trust and Bendrigg, specialist adventure centres for disabled people.
None of this would have been possible without the tireless efforts of our committee, which continues to fundraise to help make these events a reality.
Due to the popularity of Blackpool Polar Bears, we have a waiting list. However, if you'd like to join, please do get in touch with us.
Lynda Inglis
Chair
