HARROGATE - As summer fast approaches, many are already preparing for the pool rush with lifeguarding classes at Lincoln Memorial University.

Several students from a wide array of backgrounds passed the qualifying test to begin the training as a lifeguard. The test examines the students' ability to swim for extended periods of time and then perform some rescue maneuvers that will be required for the classes.

The test begins with a ten-lap swim displaying the ability to perform various strokes. The first four laps are to be done freestyle, the following two using solely the breast stroke, and the final four to be completed using a combination of the two. The laps equate to nearly a half mile of swimming.

Following the lap swim, participants must further test their endurance by treading water for five minutes before completing their diving test. During the diving test, each participant much dive nine feet to the bottom of the pool to retrieve a 10-lb diving brick. After retrieving the brick, they must maintain control of it and swim with it to the side of the pool and deliver it to the instructors.

The training involves over 38 hours of intensive swimming rescue and first aid training. Those in the class will be learning first aid and CPR, how to use an automatic external defibrulator, stabilize head and neck injuries, and how to administer oxygen among a few topics.

"We are almost trained as first responders," said LMU swimming instructor Floyd Anne Gardner.

According to the instructors, the current participants have already shown a lot of potential.

This year's class includes Evelyne Baker, Chad Burdine, Shaina Cope, Jeremy Cope, Joe Mayes, Amy Moss, Bianca Overton, and Bill Sharp.

Having been renovated and reopened just last year, Gardner has plans to keep the pool at LMU busy. Already in place along with the lifeguarding classes are scheduled open swims for the public, water aerobics classes, swimming lessons, and deep water conditioning classes.

More staff will be added soon, promising even more activities at the pool.

Gardner hopes to begin prenatal aerobics classes as well as children's water aerobics.

Gardner learned to swim at LMU's pool and has been lifeguarding since she was fifteen.