Grand Cayman, 25 April 2022 – The Department of Sports (DOS) has partnered with the Cayman Islands Aquatic Sports Association (CIASA) to install a state-of-the-art pool chiller at the Lions Aquatic Centre.

Purchased by CIASA, DOS paid for the installation and ensured that the chiller system was integrated with the Lions Pool’s filtration and electrical circuits.

The pool chiller will keep the 25-meter pool at a comfortable temperature during the hot summer months regardless of the ambient temperature. Other benefits of the new system are that it requires fewer chemicals and reduces evaporation.

Speaking of the upgrade, the association’s President, Mr. Steve Broadbelt noted: “This will make a big difference for the athletes and their preparation for CARIFTA, CCAN, and the Commonwealth Games this summer.” 

“We’ve struggled with this issue and we are grateful for the support from the Department of Sports and the Ministry of Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage.”

Director of Sports, Mr. Kurt Hyde, said: “The Department of Sports is delighted to have been able to partner with CIASA in this successful venture.

“This is a great example of the kind of collaboration that the Department wants to promote with other associations. The new pool chiller offers a high level of efficiency at relatively low operating costs,” he added.

Acting Minister for Youth, Sports, Culture & Heritage, Mr. Isaac Rankine shared: “I thank the Department of Sports, the Ministry and the Cayman Islands Aquatic Sports Association (CIASA) for installing a much-needed pool chiller. This also meets one of the actions outlined in the Government’s Strategic Broad Outcomes, particularly Broad Outcome 7 – which states ‘to enhance facilities for optimum results’.

The latest Lions Pool upgrade follows the removal of its in-pool lights, now replaced by LED lights, and the installation of new in-cast steps.