Monday June 14, 2021 | SOOKE, BC
by Jalen C Codrington | Island Social Trends | with notes by Mary P Brooke, Editor
In response to BC’s Restart Plan, things are changing at the SEAPARC Leisure Complex (SEAPARC) in Sooke.
Working with the four-step plan that the BC Govenrment announced last month, SEAPARC staff are developing plans to expand programs services in the coming months to provide an extended number of activities. This will include the return of some popular programs like their Adult Swim Fit program and Family Hockey Night.
Swimming is open again at SEAPARC (after the annual maintenance period which ends June 27), but carefully. Anyone wanting to come swim must reserve their swim time in advance of attending the facility either online or by phone. Cancellations must be made within 24 hours (in order to receive a refund or credit).
Restrictions are easing up:
However, with dropping COVID numbers, the PHO is expected to continue easing restrictions.
Dr. Bonnie Henry has stated that gyms have done a good job at mitigating transmission risks, and are not responsible for most outbreaks.
High intensity indoor recreation is now allowed as per Step 2 of BC’s Restart Plan, after being prohibited for six months. These activities include spin class, hot yoga, aerobics, combat sports, dance classes, and HIIT.
Immunization clinic takes up space:
The re-start of some SEAPARC programs will be delayed as they continue to provide space for the COVID-19 immunization clinic within their building. “The vaccine clinic is a high priority,” said Colleen Hoglund, Program Services Manager, “and SEAPARC is honoured to support this community need.” The clinic is operated by Island Health.
Currently, SEAPARC’s pool is closed for annual maintenance and will re-open to the public on June 28. The weight room at the facility on Phillips Road and the golf course down the way on Throup Road are currently operational.
Select outdoor fitness classes are running along with a few children’s programs. In addition, a variety of camp programs will begin July 5, where children can stay active throughout the summer.
Hoglund said staff are excited to welcome more community members back as restrictions lift, and so that SEAPARC can safely provide additional services.
The Step 2 phase of the BC Restart plan allows for gyms and recreation facilities that offer individual workouts and personal training sessions to remain open as long as they have a COVID-19 Safety Plan that is strictly followed.
Location of SEAPARC Leisure Complex:
The SEAPARC facility is owned by the Capital Regional District. The main building is located at 2168 Phillips Road (turn right from Sooke Road if you are heading into Sooke from the west shore — you’ll see the Sooke Region Museum at that corner).
