In 1936, Robert Smith qualified as a recipient of the Lifesaving Society Bronze Medallion. Because he was concerned that there were no swimming classes available at this time in Port Colborne, Robert Smith (Bob) decided to take it upon himself to start them in 1946 at Nickel Beach with a class of 15 boys. Subsequently, the classes grew in size and it became an annual summer event. Bob proudly presented a trophy for the most improved girl (donated by S.M. Young Jewelers), and another for the most improved boy (provided by Rossman’s Clothing), which was presented at the end of the classes in late August of each summer. Official swimming exams were conducted via the Canadian Red Cross test representative with awards earned for Junior Swimmer, Intermediate, and Senior Swimmer, depending on the age and experiences for the test held in the Welland Canal at the 3rd Ferry, a popular swimming area at that time.
Years later the Port Colborne Jaycees became the official sponsor of the swimming classes. Over the years, many volunteers assisted Bob as the interest for swimming lessons continued to grow. The first volunteer, John O. (Jack) Burghardt (pictured above with Smith) who later in life became a TV news commentator with news station channel 11 CHCH. Undoubtedly, these swimming classes provided an important skill and paved the way for the successful swimming lessons offered to Port Colborne youth at Centennial Pool and now within the Vale Health & Wellness Centre.
