Thousands Sign Up For Free Swimming Programs In NYC

Yesterday was the beginning of registration for the City's free swimming progams. A total of 5,657 children registered for the first session of Learn to Swim - an increase of 4% from last year. Additionally, 1,563 adults registered for free lap swimming programs including 720 Early Birds - a 19% increase from last year - and 843 Night Owls - a 26% increase from last year.

Parks & Recreation and the City Parks Foundation (CPF), with the support of the American Red Cross, have kicked off this year's annual Learn to Swim program. Learn to Swim is a free instructional program that runs at New York City's public outdoor pools. The program teaches tots (ages 1 ½ - 5) and children (ages 6 - 14) basic water safety and swimming skills. Registration for the first session was yesterday and that session runs from July 7 - July 23. Additional registrations will take place on July 26 for the July 27 - August 11 session, and on August 12 for the August 13 - August 27 session.

The 28th annual outdoor adult lap swim program also began yesterday, giving adults the chance to take to the water for health and fitness at designated times without interruption from other swimmers. Participants who swim 25 miles or more over the summer will receive a free t-shirt; distance prizes will also be awarded.

For more information on this and other free swim programs, visit www.nyc.gov/parks or call 311.

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