Just 30 Days Until Team WLSL™ Goes For A New World Record on June 18

On Tuesday, June 18, 2013, tens of thousands of kids and adults at aquatic facilities around the world will unite for the fourth year in a row to set a new Guinness World Record. The global record attempt for The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ (WLSL), will take place at 3 pm GMT (11am ET, 8 am PT.)

To date WLSL Host Locations are projecting participant numbers to be above 30,000, which would represent a 20 percent increase over last year’s record of 24, 873. As always, Florida, Texas and California are leading the way in a head-to-head battle until the end for the state with the greatest number of official WLSL Host Locations.

Facilities interested in serving as an official Host Location for The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ 2013 record breaking attempt have until May 19 to register online at: www.wlsl.org.

Tragically, drowning remains the leading cause of unintended, injury related death for children ages 1-5, and the second leading cause of accidental death for children under 14. Research shows participation in formal swimming lessons can reduce the risk of drowning by 88% among children aged 1 to 4, yet many kids do not receive formal swimming or water safety training.

“This year’s event is really coming together thanks to our outstanding host locations and our industry partners,” said Rick Root, President of the World Waterpark Association. “We’re excited by the prospect of thousands of families receiving the crucial message that Swimming Lessons Save Lives.”

About The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™
The World’s Largest Swimming Lesson™ was created as a platform to help aquatic facilities and the many different regional, national and international water safety organizations work together to communicate the fundamental importance of teaching children to swim. Visit www.wlsl.org to learn more.

This event is supported by the following industry leaders in water safety:
The American Red Cross (ARC), Amusement Today (AT), Aquatics International (AI), Athletic Business, the Association of Aquatic Professionals (AOAP), The Association of Pool & Spa Professionals (APSP), Canadian Red Cross, Center for Disease Control’s Healthy Swimming Program (CDC), Colin’s Hope, Drowning Prevention Foundation (DPF), INATI, International Swimming Hall of Fame (ISHOF), International Swim Instructors Association (ISIA), Independent Pool & Spa Service Association (IPSSA), Jeff Ellis & Associates, National Aquatic Safety Company (NASCO), National Recreation & Park Association (NRPA), Park World Magazine, Pool Safely, Resort and Recreation Magazine, Starfish Aquatics Institute, Safer 3 Water Safety Foundation, United States Swim School Association, USA Swimming Foundation and the World Waterpark Association (WWA).