Penny Raymond provides info on the Water Lilies Synchro Swim Club at this weekend's Active Living Market

Prince George, BC – There's a new sports club making waves in Prince George – synchronized swimming.

Already a lifeguard and swimming instructor with the City, Penny Raymond trained to coach synchronized swimming last fall and joined the club in January.  "The (2015 Canada Winter) Games are what inspired it," she says,  "Organizers thought, 'Well, synchronized swimming is going to be part of the Games, so we should have the sport here.'"  It's hoped the Water Lilies will be one of the Games' legacies.

Synchronized swimming requires athleticism and grace – athletes must find that combination of strength, breath control, and artistry that makes their underwater routines look effortless.  Locally, it's open to those between the ages of six and 18, with participants working through a levelled program, similar to swimming lessons.  With classes just starting in September, Raymond says the club is looking to attract new recruits to the sport.  "It's just so new to the city, that a lot of people just don't know we exist yet."

The club's booth is one of 30 set up at Pine Centre Mall again today for the Active Living Market.  Raymond adds that there are a number of volunteer opportunities available for those wanting to be involved during the Winter Games, with upcoming judge and minor officials training this summer.  There will also be a summer camp for athletes interested in trying the sport at the end of August.  For more information, you can contact the club by clicking here.