BARRIANS – both past and present – are being asked to help Barry Amateur Swimming Club (BASC) find missing scrapbooks that form a crucial part of our club’s history.
Barry ASC was formed nearly 100 years ago on 7th April, 1926 This coincided with the opening of Cold Knap Swimming Pool that May. The club held regular galas, attracting competitors from south Wales and further afield.
Following the pool’s opening gala, Olympic medallist Paolo Radmilovic offered coaching. The first club gala, in September 1926, featured water polo, squadron races, open races, handicap events, and diving.
In 1927, the club’s wooden headquarters were built for the sum of £102. That year, they organised a long-distance open event: one mile for men, 880 yards for women. The club still holds an annual 800-metre event.
By 1932, the club was debt-free. Growth prompted membership limits by 1971, with 270 swimming at Cold Knap and 65 at RAF St Athan in winter.
Moving to Barry Leisure Centre in 1982 allowed year-round activities. A temporary move to Cogan Leisure Centre in 1986 due to repairs nearly caused the club’s demise, but it survived and now trains in Barry.
The club’s history is documented in scrapbooks, but gaps exist. The club is looking for information and scrapbooks from 1926-1930, 1935-1947, 1950-1968, and 1991-1994. Please contact if you can help.
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