Smith River Sports Complex to open The Big Dipper June 23

The Smith River Sports Complex (SRSC) is excited to announce the official opening for its new water slide, The Big Dipper. The date has been set for Thursday, June 23, at 11 a.m. The opening will mark the first time residents in Martinsville-Henry County will have a chance to ride the area's newest water attraction. A grand opening celebration will be announced at a later date.

The Big Dipper is part of a long-range plan to enhance the sustainability of the Smith River Sports Complex. Stakeholders involved spent 18-months researching potential additions before deciding on this element as well as the driving range that opened earlier this month. The new water slide will provide the complex an opportunity for additional recreational revenue while also serving as an extra amenity for guests to the complex and our community.

"This community has been waiting a long time for The Big Dipper to open," Billy Russo, director of operations at SRSC, said. "We are excited to finally get it operational and look forward to adding a water feature to Martinsville-Henry County that is much needed."

The project was supported by funding from the Martinsville-Henry County Economic Development Corporation. Additional partners included the Henry County Public Service Authority, the Patrick Henry Community College Computer Aided Drafting and Design Department, Solid Stone Fabrics and the Harvest Foundation who leveraged the funding with in-kind support and services.

The Big Dipper will be a seasonal attraction. The one hundred and twenty-nine foot long inflatable slide will allow participants to climb 30 feet up a series of steps and splash down into a 35-foot landing pool. Water in the landing pool will be less than six inches deep making this family-friendly attraction a fun way to enjoy water for all skill levels, even those that do not swim. In the shoulder seasons, the slide can also be used without water. The minimum age to ride the slide will be 3 years old, but children under the age of 6 will be required to slide with a parent or guardian.

The water slide is located adjacent to the Eastman Party Pavilion and Evos playground at the Complex. The Big Dipper will begin the summer season open Friday, Saturday and Sunday each week from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., but could extend its operating hours based on the demand to ride the slide. Guests can purchase a single ride for $3, five slides for $10 or an unlimited day pass for $20. Group packages for birthday parties and other group outings will also be offered.   

For a full list of rules and guidelines, please visit SmithRiverSportsComplex.com/water-slide.

For more information about The Big Dipper or to find out about special group rates, please call 276-638-5200, ext. 2, or email hstutz@SmithRiverSportsComplex.com. Also be sure to follow the Smith River Sports Complex on Facebook and Twitter @SmithRiverSport for the latest news around SRSC.