The Morcom Aquatic Center is a state-of-the-art aquatic facility located in Oakland, California. It is a popular destination for swimmers, water polo players, and individuals seeking recreational aquatic activities. The center is named after Edwin Morcom, a former Oakland City Council member who was instrumental in the development of the facility. The Morcom Aquatic Center is owned and operated by the City of Oakland's Parks and Recreation Department.
Facility Overview
The Morcom Aquatic Center features a 50-meter competition pool, a 25-yard warm-up pool, and a diving well with 1-meter and 3-meter springboards. The facility also includes a weight room, locker rooms, and a spectator area with seating for up to 1,000 people. The aquatic center is equipped with advanced technology, including a timing system, scoreboards, and underwater cameras. The facility is designed to host local, regional, and national aquatic competitions, as well as community events and recreational activities.
Pool Specifications
The 50-meter competition pool is designed to meet the standards of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and the Federation Internationale de Natation (FINA). The pool features:
- 10 lanes, each 7 feet wide
- A depth range of 4 feet to 13 feet
- A water temperature range of 78°F to 82°F
- A state-of-the-art filtration system
The 25-yard warm-up pool is designed for swimmers to warm up and cool down during competitions and training sessions. The pool features:
- 6 lanes, each 6 feet wide
- A depth range of 3 feet to 5 feet
- A water temperature range of 80°F to 84°F
| Pool Type | Length | Width | Depth |
|---|---|---|---|
| Competition Pool | 50 meters | 25 yards | 4-13 feet |
| Warm-up Pool | 25 yards | 20 yards | 3-5 feet |
Amenities and Services
The Morcom Aquatic Center offers a range of amenities and services to support aquatic activities and events. These include:
- Locker rooms with showers and restrooms
- A weight room with cardio equipment and free weights
- A spectator area with seating and concessions
- Underwater cameras and video analysis software
- A timing system and scoreboards
- First aid and emergency response services
The facility also offers swimming lessons, water aerobics classes, and other aquatic programs for adults and children. The Morcom Aquatic Center is available for rent for private events, such as birthday parties and corporate functions.
Events and Competitions
The Morcom Aquatic Center hosts a variety of events and competitions throughout the year, including:
- High school and college swim meets
- Water polo tournaments
- Masters swimming competitions
- USA Swimming events
- Local and regional championships
The facility has also hosted national and international competitions, including the 2019 USA Swimming Championships and the 2020 FINA Diving World Series.
What are the hours of operation for the Morcom Aquatic Center?
+The Morcom Aquatic Center is open Monday through Friday from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and Saturday and Sunday from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, hours may vary depending on events and competitions.
How can I rent the Morcom Aquatic Center for a private event?
+To rent the Morcom Aquatic Center, contact the City of Oakland’s Parks and Recreation Department at (510) 238-3141 or morcomaquaticcenter@oaklandca.gov. A rental application and fee schedule are available on the City of Oakland’s website.
