Ralph R. Wright Natatorium opens
September 21st, 2005
Members of the University of Louisville swimming and diving team took the plunge in a ceremonial ribbon cutting to mark the grand opening of the Ralph R. Wright Natatorium on Belknap Campus Tuesday afternoon.
More than 500 students, alumni and fans filled the new $11.6 million facility, much of which is being paid for by U of L students. In 1999, the Student Government Association voted to pay a student activities fee to help cover the cost of the facility. Over a 20-year period, that fee will raise $7 million toward its construction.
“This building represents a huge commitment from our student body,” said U of L President James Ramsey. “They will truly benefit from their investment. Our swimming and diving teams will compete here and our students will use it for classes, for intramural sports and just for fun.”
The natatorium is also another addition to Cardinal Park, which now runs along Floyd Street from Cardinal Boulevard to Central Avenue. Other current projects include a new la crosse field just south of Eastern Parkway and the Trager Center indoor practice facility at Papa John’s Cardinal Stadium.
The complex is named for U of L’s first swim coach, Ralph R. Wright. Wright died at the age of 45 in 1966, but built a reputation as an incredible swimmer and terrific coach. Wright founded the American Swim Coaches Association and served on its board for many years. In addition to his work at U of L, Wright had successful coaching stints at Lakeside and Plantation swim clubs in Louisville and led the Louisville YMCA to a Southern championship. His swimmers set three national records.
The natatorium is a 50-meter pool containing nearly one million gallons of water. There are four spring boards and three platforms for diving. It can accommodate up to 800 spectators and athletes.
