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The Unsinkable Truth: 5 Surprising Facts About Bobby Hicks Pool, Tampa's Only Olympic-Sized Aquatic Gem

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Step into the water at Bobby Hicks Pool today, December 23, 2025, and you are diving into a piece of Tampa history. This aquatic facility, nestled in the heart of South Tampa, is far more than just a public swimming spot; it is a year-round, Olympic-sized institution that serves as a critical hub for competitive swimmers, fitness enthusiasts, and local families alike. The pool’s unique 50-meter lap lanes make it a rarity in the city, providing a top-tier training ground that draws athletes from across the Tampa Bay area and beyond.

The Bobby Hicks Pool, managed by the City of Tampa Parks and Recreation Department, is a testament to community dedication and a legacy honoring a local hero. While many people utilize the pool for daily lap swims or weekend open sessions, few know the compelling backstory of the man whose name graces the facility or the recent efforts to modernize this essential community resource. The following deep dive reveals the unsinkable truth about this iconic Tampa landmark.

The True Story of Robert R. "Bobby" Hicks: A Local Hero's Legacy

The name "Bobby Hicks" is indelibly linked to a peaceful 35.8-acre space in South Tampa, but the man behind the name is often forgotten. The park and pool are named in honor of Robert R. "Bobby" Hicks, a prominent and beloved figure in the Tampa Bay area whose life spanned from 1911 to the late 1960s. The park was dedicated in his honor in the late 1960s, ensuring his connection to the community would live on.

  • Born: 1911, New Orleans, LA
  • Relocation to Tampa: Moved to Tampa at age 12 with his family after his father's death.
  • Military Service: Served as a local hero who fought in World War II.
  • Career: Became a highly respected journalist and outdoorsman. He worked as the hunting and fishing editor for the *Tampa Tribune*.
  • Signature Column: He was best known for writing the long-standing and popular column titled "Hook, Lyin' and Sinker."
  • Legacy: The park and pool were named in his honor to reflect his love for nature, sports, and the outdoors, which is embodied by the park's 3-acre pond and recreational facilities.

Note: It is important to distinguish this Robert R. Hicks from the Florida folk singer, Robert Orr "Bobby" Hicks (1953-2007), who was also a Tampa native. The park is named for the World War II veteran and Tribune editor.

The Olympic Standard: Why Bobby Hicks Pool is Tampa's Crown Jewel

The Bobby Hicks Pool, located at 4120 W Mango Ave, is unique in the Tampa public pool landscape for one major reason: its size. It is the only public facility in the City of Tampa that meets the exacting standards of an Olympic-sized pool.

Unrivaled Aquatic Features and Dimensions

Unlike most community pools, which are 25 yards (short course), Bobby Hicks is designed for serious training and competition. This makes it an invaluable asset for local swim teams, triathletes, and dedicated lap swimmers.

  • Olympic Size: The pool features ten 50-meter lap lanes (long course).
  • Alternative Configuration: For certain programs and times, the pool can be configured into 20 25-yard lanes (short course).
  • Year-Round Operation: The facility is open year-round, providing a consistent training environment regardless of the season, which is crucial for competitive swimming.
  • Key Programs: The schedule regularly includes dedicated times for Lap Swim, Aqua Fitness classes, and Open Swim sessions for the public.
  • Diving: The pool is also equipped with diving facilities, hosting practices for groups like the Greater Tampa Swim Association (GTSA) Dive team.

The pool’s proximity to key Tampa locations, including Robinson High School, Mac Dill Air Force Base, the Westshore district, Hyde Park, and Davis Island, solidifies its role as a central aquatic hub for South Tampa residents and military families.

Behind the Lanes: Community Efforts and What's Next for the Pool

While the Bobby Hicks Pool is celebrated for its facilities, it is also the site of ongoing community advocacy and development. The facility's heavy use by various groups, particularly the Greater Tampa Swim Association (GTSA), has brought certain needs to the forefront, showcasing the true, active engagement of the local swimming community.

The Push for Permanent Shade

One of the most significant and recent issues facing the pool is the lack of permanent sun protection. The Greater Tampa Swim Association (GTSA), a major user of the facility for training and competition, has been actively campaigning for the installation of permanent shading.

  • The Problem: Swimmers and spectators, especially during long summer practices and meets, are exposed to the intense Florida sun for extended periods.
  • The Advocacy: The GTSA and local parents have highlighted the need for permanent shade structures to protect athletes' health and enhance the overall user experience.
  • The Impact: Securing permanent shading would not only improve comfort but also allow the pool to better host regional swim meets, boosting its status as a premier aquatic venue.

Pool Schedule and Access Information (Updated Fall/Winter 2025)

For those planning a visit, the pool operates on a specific schedule that balances public access with organized programs. It is always best to check the official City of Tampa Parks and Recreation website for the most current schedule, as hours are subject to change for holidays, events, or maintenance.

General Fall/Winter Hours Snapshot (Example):

Day Primary Activities Key Time Slots
Monday Lap Swim, Aqua Fitness, GTSA Dive/Practice 5:30 am–noon (Lap Swim), 9:30–10:15 am (Aqua Fitness)
Tuesday Lap Swim, Open Swim, GTSA Practice 5:30 am–noon (Lap Swim), Noon–4 pm (Open Swim)
Saturday Open Swim, GTSA Practice Specific times vary; check for weekend Open Swim hours.
Sunday Closed Generally closed for public access.

Contact and Location:

  • Address: 4120 W Mango Ave, Tampa, FL 33616
  • Phone: (813) 832-1217
  • Operator: City of Tampa Parks and Recreation

From its namesake, the World War II veteran and beloved outdoors editor Robert R. Hicks, to its role as the City of Tampa’s only Olympic-sized training facility, the Bobby Hicks Pool is a vital and dynamic part of the South Tampa community. Its future looks bright, driven by the dedication of local groups like the Greater Tampa Swim Association, who continue to advocate for improvements that will ensure this aquatic oasis remains a top-tier destination for decades to come.

The Unsinkable Truth: 5 Surprising Facts About Bobby Hicks Pool, Tampa's Only Olympic-Sized Aquatic Gem
bobby hicks swimming pool
bobby hicks swimming pool

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