The long and sandy stretch of the Marina is a blessing for Chennaiites. Eateries, horse rides and other entertainment on the sands are a bliss for the beach-goers. The identity of Chennai city, Marina, is perhaps the only stretch where one can swim, skate and stroll.
The beach is home for two swimming pools including the oldest and the Olympic size one and a skating arena.
Anna swimming pool
Located opposite the clock tower building of the University of Madras, Anna swimming pool virtually remains hidden behind the Anna Square bus terminus.
According to swimming coach R. Mohan, the Anna pool is the first Olympic size pool to be built in the State. “It was constructed in 1976 and had a diving board. Later it underwent a renovation and the diving board was removed. Today, one of the best pools in the State, it is an apt spot for competitive swimmers,” the coach added.
Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT) conducts regular coaching camps for beginners and provides membership for serious swimmers at the pool that is 4-feet to 11-feet deep. The Anna pool also has a toddler pool that is 2.5-feet.
Marina swimming pool
Built in 1947, the Marina swimming pool on Kamaraj Salai opposite Presidency College is perhaps the oldest in the city. The pool is 100-feet long and 30 feet wide, bigger than the standard Olympic pool size of 50 feet x 30 feet and is 3-feet to 5.5-feet deep.
Maintained by Corporation of Chennai, the Marina pool underwent renovation in 1994 and 2004. A boon to boys and beginners to swimming, the pool is witnessing huge crowds this summer.
Skating arena
The oval-shaped skating arena attracts a lot of children in the mornings and evenings. It remains a recreational spot for children of different age groups. It has an outer railing and standing area from where parents can watch their children perform.
