Dive classes come to Hot Springs

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HOT SPRINGS – On Sunday, Feb. 4, Black Hills Aquatic Adventures out of Rapid City held an Introduction to Scuba Diving course at Evans Plunge with owner/ instructor Jim Wallace.

“This class basically covers the ‘dos and don’ts’ of diving,” explained Wallace. “This is not a certification course but one to get people interested in further underwater training.”

While the course focused on proper use of equipment and dive safety, Wallace pointed out that this course also helps people not only adjust to breathing underwater but also helps those who may have some fears.

“A lot of folks want to give it a try but may have fears,” he said, “but after the course, 85% get over the fear and go on up the ladder to more certifications.”

However, he does advise that even with the basic introduction course, the student must have at least basic swimming skills.

The Wilson family of Hot Springs took this intro course as a group.

“It was a surprise for my husband Brian’s birthday,” said Petra Wilson.

“I’ve wanted to do this for years,” said Brian, “and this is such a cool opportunity especially in Hot Springs.”

The Wilson’s children Reina and Zachary were both excited for the new adventure.

“This is gonna be super fun,” said Reina, 15, with hopes of further training and a possible family scuba diving vacation.

“This is fun,” said Zachary, 16, of the surprise.

Hot Springs resident Freyser Abaraca also took the course in hopes of moving up the certification ladder.

“It looks like so much fun,” he said, “watching all those dive videos of beautiful reefs I wanted to learn.” Originally from Costa Rica, he hopes to one day visit home “and all the beautiful beaches and scuba dive there.”

While most certification courses take place in Rapid City at the Black Hills Aquatic Adventures facility, Wallace stated he would be more than happy to come back to Hot Springs to hold trainings that fit within the parameters of the certification with the final class being held in Rapid City in a 12 foot deep pool for open water certification.

“We will definitely be taking the next class,” said Petra, with dreams of diving in the Caribbean someday with the whole family.

Wallace not only offers courses but also dive adventures to exotic locations as well as off of U.S. shores.

For more information on classes visit the Black Hills Aquatic Adventures website at blackhillsaquaticadventures.com.