Nearly 6,000 athletes, spectators, coaches and officials from all over Florida are visiting Martin County as Sailfish Splash Waterpark's Aquatic Center is serving as the host location for the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) Swimming and Diving Finals.
This is the eighth consecutive year that the FHSAA has hosted its signature meet at Sailfish Splash Waterpark. The event kicked off on Friday, November 6 and will end on Saturday, November 14. Todd Foust, Aquatics and Park Administrator, noted that "This year has been challenging for everyone. We are happy to be able to adapt to the current circumstances and continue to host this event, where national records have been broken and swimmers have gone on to win gold at the Olympics." On the first weekend of the meet, a new state record was set by Alexis Mulvihill, from George Steinbrenner High School, in the 50 free. With a time of 22.22, Alexis broke the previous mark held by Christina Swindle since 2002.
In addition to its athletic relevance, this event also provides exciting entertainment as well as generating a substantial positive impact for the local economy from visitors staying in hotels, dining out, gassing up, shopping and having fun. In collaboration with the local host schools, South Fork High School and Jensen Beach High School, the Martin County Parks and Recreation Department is providing operational management and coordination, with support from the Treasure Coast Sports Commission. Local businesses, including Carrabba's Italian Grill, Domino's Pizza, The Fresh Market and Bagel Break in Stuart, are also supporting this event through hospitality sponsorships.
"We are excited to have FHSAA return to Martin County. We have a winning combination that attracts sports tourism: great staff delivering exceptional customer service, wonderful partners and sponsors and championship caliber facilities set in the convenient, affordable, relaxed, family-friendly environment of Martin County," said Kevin Abbate, Parks and Recreation Director.
For more information about Sailfish Splash Waterpark and the Martin County Parks and Recreation Department, please visit www.SailfishSplash.com and www.LoveMCParks.com.
