Olympic gold medallist and triple World Champion rower Zac Purchase MBE will officially open the new David Lloyd Leisure club in Worcester on Wednesday 5 December.
As one of Britain’s most successful rowers, Zac will cut the ribbon to launch the state-of-the-art club, which is the 81st UK installation for Europe’s premier sports, health and leisure group.
The 26-year-old, who grew up in Worcester, won silver at the London Games in the Men’s Lightweight Double Sculls with his rowing partner Mark Hunter and gold at Beijing in 2008.
He said: “I am absolutely delighted to be opening David Lloyd Worcester, which will provide the Worcester community with a fantastic array of facilities, programmes, coaching and expertise.
“This has been the most amazing year of sport for the UK, with the Olympics and Paralympics inspiring a whole nation to get involved with sport.
“I became interested in rowing when I was 11-years-old and I understand the huge importance of engaging youngsters at an early age – not only to nurture the talent of future sporting stars but to help children lead healthy and active lifestyles.
“David Lloyd Worcester will play a key role in the Worcester community in encouraging the whole family to take part in sport and exercise.”
Wayne Isaac, general manager at David Lloyd Worcester, added: “We are really honoured to have Zac Purchase open our new club.
“He is a fantastic role model for anyone – from those who want to achieve their personal health and fitness goals to those who dream of sporting greatness.
“We are incredibly excited about becoming part of the Worcester community and have already developed some strong relationships, particularly with the Worcester Warriors rugby team.
“The club is looking stunning and I cannot wait for all of our members to experience the excellent facilities and services.”
Representing an £8m investment, David Lloyd Worcester, located next to the Worcester Warriors’ Sixways Stadium, is a stunning 5,600sqm complex featuring three indoor and five outdoor tennis courts.
The 25m indoor pool, children’s pool and a 20m outdoor pool will offer a range of activities including aqua aerobics, family swim times and quiet adult swim sessions.
A key feature will be the 900sqm gymnasium, housing the very latest fitness equipment. Gym instructors will be on hand to provide guidance while a team of qualified personal trainers will offer a more bespoke service for those needing help to achieve specific goals.
Other facilities include two physiotherapy rooms and a wet spa area, including spa pool, two saunas, a steam room, heated beds and ice machine.
For a full list of facilities and to find out more information, visit www.davidlloyd.co.uk/worcester. For membership information call 0845 129 6751.