SPLASHDOWN FOR SPLASHTOWN: WATER PARK OFFICIALLY OPENS OBSTACLE COURSE PROVIDES A NEW RECREATION OPPORTUNITY

After a global pandemic bounced around their business plans, beach lovers can finally bounce around themselves at Splashtown Niagara.

The inflatable water park officially opened at Nickel Beach on Saturday, June 18. Throughout the summer visitors to Nickel Beach will be able to try their hand at the course, which owner Derek Stonier said promises to be as difficult as it is fun.

"It's extremely challenging. I challenge anyone to come out, get through it, see if they can," he said.

Derek and his wife Sheila have been waiting two years to get the park open. COVID-19 restrictions put their plans on hold, but now that it is open Derek said they're optimistic it'll be a great addition for the beach.

"We're all very excited to get it up and running," Stonier said. Though they now live in Welland, Stonier grew up in Port Colborne and sees potential in both the beach and the city.

"The weekends are very popular here with out-of-towners, and we're hoping to tap into the (entire) market, local Port

Colborne residents, Niagara residents and GTA Hamilton," he said.

"Not just to use the park...Port Colborne has so much to offer and it (has) such a cool beach vibe."

Port Colborne Mayor Bill Steele agreed, stating that the park should attract people from far and wide.

"It's just another advantage to Port Colborne," he said.

Stonier said they're hoping to organize a charity event later this year as a way to give back and give groups, businesses and organizations a great team building event.

In the meantime, more information can be found at splashtownniagara.ca or the Splashtown Niagara Facebook page.