The new National Pool in Swansea

Some of Wales would-be swimming champions have welcomed the opening of the new National Pool in Swansea.

The �10.7m centre, which replaces the old Empire Pool in Cardiff, has been hailed as a major boost for the sport.

It is hoped it will improve the country's chances of picking up medals in next year's Olympics in Athens and the 2006 Commonwealth Games in Melbourne.

First Minister Rhodri Morgan joined five of Wales' best prospects at the poolside on Thursday.

"This long-awaited, world-class 50-metre pool will provide our top swimmers with the very best training facilities to compete and win at the highest level," he said.

It's a magnificent facility and I'm sure it will increase interest in the sport in Wales Mackenzie Howe, 16

"It has been built to meet world standards and will be an exciting venue to host national and international swimming championships in Wales."

One of the those aiming to make his mark at the highest level is Swansea University student Steven Evans.

The 22-year-old from Loughor has already set four Welsh records at 50 metre freestyle and represented Wales at the 2002 Commonwealth Games.

"Welsh swimmers will no longer have to travel to England just have to have the chance of competing long courses," he said.

Swansea student Steven Evans

Another to represent Wales in Manchester last year was 16-year-old freestyle swimmer Mackenzie Howe of Cardiff.

Thursday was her first look at the new pool and she said she was more than impressed.

"It's just amazing - we have been waiting for this for a long time," she said.

"It's a magnificent facility and I'm sure it will increase interest in the sport in Wales."

The pool on Sketty Lane replaces the old Empire Pool in Cardiff city centre which closed four years ago

It boasts an eight lane 50 metre competition pool alongside a 25-metre training and warm-up pool.

'Elite facilities'

There is seating for up to 1,100 spectators.

The Sports Council for Wales injected �8.5m and both Swansea Council and Swansea University contributed to the costs.

Chairman of the Sports Council Gareth Davies said: "The pool will form a vital element in Wales' network of elite facilities and it will be crucial to the medal hopes of our top swimmers.

"We must be able to invest in major sports venues if we are to nurture our sporting talent and expect medals."