GRIDLEY, CA (MPG) - Come summertime, Gridley's Olympic sized pool becomes packed with Gators−Gridley Gators! This year marks the 50th anniversary of the swim club that started in 1969 as the “Go-Fish.” In the summer of ’69, swimming lessons offered at the recently completed community pool quickly led to the foundation of the swim team. Between the 1975 and 1976 swim seasons, the “Go-Fish” traded their name and red, white and blue suits in favor of the more intimidating name of “Gators” and green and gold garb. Since then, generations of swimmers have come up through the lanes.

In honor of those that swam before, the Gators are planning to celebrate their semi-centennial as they host the annual Gridley Gator Swim Invitational this weekend, from June 28^th-30^th at the Gridley Pool. The Gators plan to have a poolside pancake breakfast both Saturday and Sunday from 7 -10 am. The breakfast is sponsored by Gator parents and the Knights of Columbus, and just $5 will get you pancakes, sausage and OJ. Saturday June 29^th at 6:00 pm, the Gators wish to invite all Gator Alumni to join them at their Gator BBQ and Silent Auction, again a poolside party.

The Gridley invitational is the club’s largest fundraiser of the season and provides the team with the opportunity to take part in a diverse swim competition, while of course, having healthy fun. Proceeds from the event not only benefit the club but solidify the only summer athletic program available within the Gridley community. Here’s to 50 more years!