In this edition, we go to America's heartland, Iowa, to take a look at the pool at Grinnell College.
New Digs: Grinnell completed the pool just last year in 2010. It represents a significant upgrade over their old facility. Lots of other liberal arts school (and colleges) are very jealous right now. The pool was pressed into immediate service as it served as host for the Mid West Conference Championships
Where is that again? For those of you not familiar with Iowa geography, Grinnell is located precisely 100 miles from the nearest human settlement. We kid but its actually not that much of an exaggeration, Des Moines is the closest "city" and is an hour drive away according to google maps. This pool nearly challenges Kenyon for the "most remote nice pool" championship. Gambier, Ohio residents can rest easy.
So That's Where They Get The Money!: Grinnell has one of the largest endowments of any liberal arts college in the United States (1.26 Billion as of January 2011). Of course, it helps when you have one of the richest people in the world, Warren Buffett, sitting on your board of trustees since 1968. As far as we know, however, Buffett didn't spend any money on lane lines.
They actually swim in it: Grinnell had a nice season in 2011, winning both the Men's and Women's Mid West Conference Championship, finishing in 31st (Women) and 33rd (Men) in the NCAA. Two swimmers- Imelda Wistey and Michael Brus, and one diver- Kelly Bruce, earned All-America honors at the meet.
Bonus Points: For the huge Grinnell "G" that sits next to the American flag. Wouldn't want anyone to get confused about where they are.
Wow, I thought NCAA Men's swimming was banished from America's heartland (besides Iowa). Who knew?
ReplyDeleteCan I just mention the ten lanes that make invites go oh-so-much more quickly?
ReplyDeleteAnd two bulkheads? Nothing like being able to see your coaches from every possible angle when you're swimming the mile...