The official opening of Claremorris Leisure centre took place last Saturday on October 20th.

The opening ceremony was performed by the Minister of state for Tourism and Sport Mr Michael Ring. The large attendance reflects the importance of the facility to the town and the surrounding area.

Michael Ring TD Minister of State for Tourism & Sport performed the official opening of Claremorris Leisure Centre; part of the large crowd who attended the opening. Photo © Ken Wright Photography 2012.

Michael Ring TD Minister of State for Tourism & Sport performed the official opening of Claremorris Leisure Centre; he was welcomed by Monsignor John Boyle, Chairman Claremorris Leisure Centre. Photo © Ken Wright Photography 2012.

Michael Ring TD Minister of State for Tourism & Sport officially opened the Claremorris Leisure Centre, some of the members of staff at the centre l-r; Marcin Kondziela, Paul Gleeson, Donal Mulkeen, Karen Loftus, Manager, Marilyn Barrett, Nicola Muldowney and Barry Deagan . Photo © Ken Wright Photography 2012.

Michael Ring TD Minister of State for Tourism & Sport officially opened the Claremorris Leisure Centre, pictured with Michael are Alan Brennan and Stephen Burke . Photo © Ken Wright Photography 2012.

Claremorris leisure centre is proving to be one of the true success stories of our region. Employing 24 members of staff, it is carrying on a 40 year tradition of providing swim lessons and water safety to all age groups and schools within the wider community.

Home to the widely regarded Claremorris Swimming Club it also boasts a superb state of the art Gymnasium and Fitness studio which is the equal of any facility in the country. It also has a spacious Spa in which to unwind and relax after your exertions.

Michael Ring TD Minister of State for Tourism & Sport officially opened the Claremorris Leisure Centre, Peter Hynes, County Manager Mayo County Council addressing the large crowd at the opening . Photo © Ken Wright Photography 2012.

Michael Ring TD Minister of State for Tourism & Sport officially opened the Claremorris Leisure Centre, front l-r; Eabha Finnerty, Briona Finnerty, Laura Finnerty. Back l-r; Conrad Dixon, Kate O’Brien, Cathal Finnerty, Lisa O’Brien, Michael Ring TD, Sarah O’Brien and Shauna Dixon. The O’O’Brien’s and the Finnerty’s are grandchildren of the original committee. Photo © Ken Wright Photography 2012.

Michael Ring TD Minister of State for Tourism & Sport addressing the large crowd at the official opening of the Claremorris Leisure Centre. Photo © Ken Wright Photography 2012.

Come and see for yourself why Claremorris Leisure Centre serves not just the needs of the health conscious but is a happy meeting place for all who drop by.

This success story began sometime back in the 60's when a few visionary townsfolk thought of the importance of giving the skill of being able to swim to their community. A 12 metre Mermaid pool was procured in Dublin and transported to the town in the heart of the west. The first swimming pool was installed by local ingenuity and skill in what now is the present GAA Complex. Here the seeds were sown of greater things to come. Tireless work brought the driven few from Claremorris all over the country fundraising and collecting for the next few years. And in December 1978 the second Claremorris Swimming pool was opened at its present location on D'Alton Street.

Michael Ring TD Minister of State for Tourism & Sport officially opened the Claremorris Leisure Centre, Liam Smith, board member showing Michael some of the gym equipment. Photo © Ken Wright Photography 2012.

Michael Ring TD Minister of State for Tourism & Sport officially opened the Claremorris Leisure Centre, Michael is pictured with Michael Cummins and Peter Hynes, County Manager Mayo County Council. Photo © Ken Wright Photography 2012.

It was here dreams were realised and Claremorris swimming Pool became one of the most successful in the country, throughout the eighties and into the millineum. Claremorris Swimming Club dominated competitions in Ireland providing some notable international swimmers and water polo players. The Pool also produced many water safety pupils and its lifeguards patrolled the beaches of Mayo and much further afield

It was the dedication of one Such Monsignor John O'Boyle who pioneered modern coaching and teaching at Claremorris Swimming Pool, and together with a vast army of local parents and volunteers, they laid the foundations of the reputation of swimming lessons at Claremorris as being second to none. Volunteers helped out at the desk, on Swimming Gala's, at social events held at the Pool down the years. The teaching and passing on of skills and knowledge is a strong tradition in Claremorris carried on to the present day. A later addition was a fully equipped gymnasium which proved very popular to the south Mayo region.

In todays new facility - A comprehensive range of fitness classes run throughout the week in our studio. Early morning risers can head to their favourite class, hit the Gym, or have an invigorating swim before starting their day. From 7am to 9:45 Mon to Friday a full range of fitness classes, child and adult swim lessons, Active 55 workouts, Aqua Aerobics, Zumbatomic and Tai Chi 4 Kidz, Yogalates, and our ever popular Aerocycle classes are pumping. Weekend activities include swim classes and Water polo.

Michael Ring TD Minister of State for Tourism & Sport unveiling the plaque to officially open the Claremorris Leisure Centre also in the picture TD’s, councillors, members of Mayo County Council and leisure centre management. Photo © Ken Wright Photography 2012.

Michael Ring TD Minister of State for Tourism & Sport officially opened the Claremorris Leisure Centre, Barry Gleeson who enjoyed having his face painted. Photo © Ken Wright Photography 2012.

If relaxation is more your preference we have a large Cedarwood Sauna and a Mosaic Steamroom. We have a sunken Jacuzzi in which to relax and unwind. What about a recession busting swim on Monday mornings from only €3!

Our membership rates are not to be beaten and Members enjoy great discounts on all our courses. Pay as you go is as popular as ever and you can avail of all facilities for the one low cost. Find us on Facebook or check out our website. Better still call in and take a look around.