After 12 years of being abandoned and unused, the grandstands at the Olympic-sized pools at Flamengo's Aquatic Park began construction this week. The renovation was highly anticipated, especially by swimmers and their parents, who come to the club to watch training and competitions. The grandstand is expected to be fully completed in approximately 60 days.

The renovation of the stands was one of the first demands of President and former swimmer Patricia Amorim, who will now see yet another improvement made to the Gávea club.

"The president has always been asking me for this renovation, and since we were involved in several other projects, we were only able to fulfill it now. But the work has already begun in earnest, and in two months we want to see it completely finished so that everyone can enjoy yet another improvement at the club," said Cacau Cotta, vice president of administration and Fla-Gávea.

Swimming instructor Manuel Carãn approved the work and stated that the grandstand will benefit all of his athletes and members.

"I teach next to the stands, and they were completely abandoned. It was very dangerous for the younger students who take classes here. With this renovation, we'll be able to welcome many members and visitors who want to watch our training sessions and competitions, and this is a great way to encourage athletes," said the coach.