Make a Splash: Celebrate the 8th Annual April Pools Day!

As the community anticipates the arrival of warm weather and the joys of summer, prioritizing safety in water-related activities is essential for a fun and secure season. Committed to promoting water safety education, the Bradford West Gwillimbury (BWG) Leisure Centre is excited to announce its 8th Annual April Pools Day event on Saturday, April 26, 2025.

Join BWG’s aquatic team from 12:00 to 5:00 pm at the Bradford Lions Aquatic Centre (Leisure Centre) for this complimentary event designed to equip individuals of all ages with essential water safety skills. This year's focus will be on lifejacket use and boating safety—critical components of water safety. According to the Lifesaving Society's 2024 National Drowning Report, an average of 442 water-related deaths occurred each year during 2015–2019, highlighting the importance of such safety measures.

Image of individuals by the pool with floatation devices and lifeguards

“Each year, about 160 people drown in Ontario—yet nearly every one of these tragedies is preventable. Thanks to the Lifesaving Society and the dedication of our aquatics team, we continue working toward the goal of zero drownings. Events like April Pools Day help raise awareness and teach life-saving skills in a fun and engaging way. I encourage all residents to take part and stay safe around water.” - Director of Recreation and Culture, Terry Foran

This educational and interactive community event ensures local families are prepared for the upcoming summer season. Residents of all ages and swimming abilities are welcome to participate and learn drowning prevention strategies, proper life jacket fitting and use, basic self-help skills, and rescue techniques for water emergencies.

Event Schedule – BWG Leisure Centre:

12:00 - 1:15 pm

Community Corner display booths

Explore a variety of community booths set up in the Community Corner of the Leisure Centre

1:30 - 3:00 pm

FREE Leisure swim courtesy of Bradford Lions Club

Enjoy a complimentary swim – fun for all ages! * Admission policy applies

3:15 - 5:00 pm

Indoor Triathlon * (Registered Program - $30.00)

Kick off triathlon season with our Indoor triathlon event!

Participants will complete:

15-minute swim in a 25m pool – any stroke, any pace.
10-minute transition period. You will need to change into dry clothing for the biking and the running.
15-minute stationary bike ride – all bikes set with minimum resistance.
15-minute run or walk on a 110m indoor track.

Compete as an individual or team—perfect for all fitness levels!

This year, the Aquatics Team is launching a fundraiser in support of the Lifesaving Society's Water Smart® Campaign. The team’s goal is to raise $3,000 for this community-funded campaign, which aims to promote safe and responsible behaviour in and around water to prevent water-related injuries.

In previous years, the Town of BWG has been honoured to receive both the Darnell Challenge Cup and the Water Smart® Award from the Lifesaving Society. Last year, BWG proudly took home the Darnell Challenge Cup once again, recognizing our continued commitment to raising funds in support of drowning prevention initiatives. Thank you to the Bradford Lions Club for sponsoring this year’s event.

The Town of BWG offers swimming lessons and aquatic leadership programs. For more information or to register for a program, please visit www.townofbwg.com/BWGLeisureCentre.

Media Contact:
Cortnee Andrade, Aquatic Programmer
Phone: 905-775-5366 ext. 8402
Email: candrade@townofbwg.com