For 50 years, Centennial Pool at Saugeen District Senior School (SDSS) has been a part of recreational swimming, learning to swim, learning lifeguarding skills and competitive swimming for the past 40 years in Port Elgin (Saugeen Shores).
It was the pool where the Breakers Swim Team began and broke swim records over the years competing provincially and nationally bringing medals to Saugeen Shores. The Breakers record board, that lists all the records achieved over more than 40 years and more, greeted visitors at the entrance over the years.
“I can only hope that this chart of records will be saved and perhaps posted somewhere in the new facility,” said a swimmer whose name was on the record from 40 years ago. “It’s a part of history not only for the Club but for the Town, and many former swimmers’ family descendants are now part of the Club who will carry on the tradition of breaking records.”
For larger view, click on image
It was also a pool where many learned the skills of lifeguarding,many of whom still take part in lifesaving skills each year and that host provincial Lifesaving competitions in Port Elgin. Saugeen Shores Lifesaving Club (SSLC) has competed nationally and internationally bringing recognition to Saugeen Shores on the global stage.
On Sunday, January 25th (2026), it was the last chance for many who had grown up swimming in the pool to take a last swim. The pool is now officially closed and, because it is on town property, although part of the high school, it is now in the process of being sold to the Bluewater School Board.
The closure comes about following the opening of the new pool and fitness facility in Port Elgin – the Pryde Aquatic and Wellness Centre, which opens to the public today, January 26th.
For many on Sunday, the last day of the Centennial pool, it was a nostalgic swim and a look at familiar sites, such as the murals that adorn the walls leading downstairs to the pool, and more.
For larger view, click on image
Some residents who grew up taking swimming lessons at the pool brought their grandchildren with them to take part in a memorable generational swim on Sunday.
Although it was a nostalgic day, it was also a day to look forward as many of those who dipped in the pool for a last time said that they were looking forward to the new Aquatic Centre.
Mike Kennedy said that “We are really looking forward to the new pool and intend to spend a lot of time there.”
Beth Girdwood brought her grandchildren for a last swim in the old pool. “I grew up here and my grandchildren have been swimming here too … but we are also looking forward to seeing the new pool.”
Also seen on the last day of swimming in the pool was Saugeen Shores Police Sgt. Andy Evans who has been using the pool as part of his training to take part in an ‘iron-man’ competition. “I come here three to four times a week to swim. I plan to take part soon in a half-iron-man competition in Dallas (TX) and a full iron-man in September in Wisconsin. I’m really looking forward to using the new pool and the other aspects of the new facility.”
The Pryde Aquatic and Wellness Centre held its grand opening on Saturday, January 24th, when hundreds of people took the opportunity to tour the new facility in high expectation.
Among the comments heard at the grand opening were … “It’s amazing” … “a real asset for the town” … “can hardly wait to use the track all winter” … “it actually outshines others in the region” … “this is a city-style facility” … “this will be a real hub for swim team competitions”.
The fate of the old Centennial pool is, as yet, unknown as it is in the process of being sold to the school board.
