Private swim clubs report larger-than-normal Labor Day crowds

September 8, 2020 | 12:08 am

Updated September 7, 2020 | 8:42 pm

Graphic by Owensboro Times

Private swim clubs reported successful Labor Day attendance at their sites despite COVID-19 restrictions putting a hold on opening days and sporadic visitation for much of the 2020 season. 

For Atlantis Swim Club Owner Karen Jones, ending the summer on a positive note was a big win after struggling for much of the season. 

“We were packed today, more than normal,” Jones said Monday. “I don’t know if it was for Labor Day and the kids not being in school, or if it was the good weather.” 

Jones said Atlantis had a rough year financially. While seasonal memberships make up a large chunk of the revenue Atlantis acquires, so do concession stand sales. After being forced to open up over a month later than normal this year, Jones said this year was a struggle.

“We definitely didn’t do what we normally do. We got help from the government with the small business loan, but even our employment was kind of down,” she said. 

Dane McLaird, general manager at Owensboro Country Club, said his swim club would be extending the 2020 season until Sept. 20 due to the late start. The pool will be open for the next couple of weeks on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, he said. 

McLaird said Labor Day brought out more members than usual this year, but added that since school started back, attendance at the pool had been “hit or miss.” 

“The weekends have been largely weather-dependent,” he said. “We had a big crowd today — about 100-150 people. It was actually a little bigger this year than in years past.” 

OCC went all out this Labor Day weekend with inflatables, a golf scramble and a slip-n-slide, McLaird said. 

“We do it up a little bit — people are excited,” he said. “Everyone’s been positive about extending the season. We just have to hope the weather holds out.” 

While Jones said it was nice to end the summer with a successful last day, she also implored the community to check Atlantis out next year when they reopen. 

“New people are moving into town and a lot of people don’t even know about us,” she said. “We just want you to come check us out. It’s well worth it.” 

September 8, 2020 | 12:08 am

Share this Article

Other articles you may like