Who is Mary Wayte?
The pool is named after Mary Wayte, who grew up and learned to swim on Mercer Island. She became one of the greatest female swimmers in American history winning five Olympic medals (including two gold) at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles, CA and the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul South Korea. About Mary Wayte
1984 Gold Medal Swim :
Mary Wayte 2016 interview :
Why is the Natatorium named after John Walker?
John Walker was a co-owner of Olympic Cascade Aquatics with his business partner, Alice Godfred. When the pool was at the brink of closure back in 2011, John and Alice stepped forward to manage the operations of the pool. Through a partnership with the Mercer Island School District, the City of Mercer Island, and OCA, Mary Wayte Pool remains open to the public today. On August 18, 2018, John passed away after a short, but tough fight against colon cancer. Because of John’s hard work and dedication to Mary Wayte Pool, we felt it was only fitting to honor John by naming the Natatorium after him. “Swim Fast and Have Fun!” For more about Coach John, CLICK HERE
How do I sign my kids up for swimming lessons?
You can click on the group or private lesson buttons on the home page, you can call the pool front desk (206-588-1117), or you can stop by the pool and sign up in person.
Is there a fee to withdraw or transfer days for group or private lessons?
When you book a spot in our group or private lessons, you are taking a spot that someone else could have booked. With that in mind, along with the need to have a staff member assist with this transaction, there is a $10 fee to transfer or withdraw from any group or private lessons.
Is the pool a public pool?
Yes. We are open to the public and no membership is required to attend swims open to the public. For our current schedule CLICK HERE The pool is owned by the Mercer Island School District and operated by OCA.
What is the water temperature?
The average is between 83-degrees Fahrenheit and 84-degrees Fahrenheit.
Is the pool chlorinated?
Yes, the pool uses chlorine
Is the pool Olympic sized?
No. An Olympic competition is in a 50-meter pool. The pool is 40 yards long with a bulkhead at 25 yards, which constitutes the distance required for high school events and United States Swimming short course distance.
Does the pool have a diving board open to the public?
No. The pool has a 1-meter spring board which is open during high school competition only.
What is the minimum age to swim alone in the pool?
Children under 6 or less than 3’6” tall are required to have an adult in the water swimming with them. We recommend that swimmers be at least six months old prior to swimming. Swim diapers are required for children that are not potty trained. Reminder that children over 6 years of age must use their gender specific locker room.
Why do we have to fill out a Liability Waiver for swimming lessons?
OCA requires all lesson participants to have a waiver for every participant for every lesson registered. It is required by our insurance carrier.
What is the policy for inclement weather?
The pool is a Mercer Island school district facility. If school is cancelled or delayed due to weather, the pool will most likely be impacted. To find out of any unscheduled closures please check this website, visit our Facebook page, or you can call the pool.
What age is considered a “senior”?
60
Can I donate money to support the pool?
The pool has stayed in operation due to generous support of many community members. Talk to the pool staff and they can help direct you on areas where you can help.
Can I rent the pool for a party?
The pool is available for rental on weekends for private parties. Pool staff can set up a pool party with pizza, movie rentals and music of your choice. CLICK HERE for more party rental information.
What kind of family activities does the pool offer?
The pool is open regularly for family swim (in the shallow pool) and lap swims (in the deep end of the pool). CLICK HERE for our current pool schedule.
Why are there blue donation bins outside the building by the tennis courts?
The pool has a great relationship with Northwest Center. There are blue clothing donation bins for dropping off re-usable clothing next to the tennis courts. For more information on donating other items, visit www.bigbluetruck.org or call 800-992-2060. Please do not leave garbage or furniture at the bins.
Have a question not on the list?
CLICK HERE to submit a question to our staff.