Differentiated Practice, Education and Amateur Activity. Swimming in Costa Rica (1906–1949)

Abstract

The objective of this article is to analyze the historical development of the beginnings of swimming in Costa Rica between 1906 and 1949, that is, during the first half of the 20th century. The information necessary to address this objective was obtained through data provided by newspapers such as El Pacífico, La Información, La Prensa Libre, La Tribuna, Diario de Costa Rica, La Hora, La Voz del Atlántico, Mundo Femenino, and La República. The following questions are answered: How did swimming originate in Costa Rica? what mechanisms were used to try to spread its practice at the social and gender levels? and what was the sporting level of Costa Rican swimming during the years of study? During the study period, swimming in the country showed a differentiated performance, with elite swimmers-both men and women-practicing in private clubs, the best schools in the capital, and at the Academia de Cultura Física. The popular sectors identified with swimming through activities they performed in the sea, rivers, lakes, and especially at the public bathing resort of Ojo de Agua. The level of swimming practiced was rudimentary due to the lack of international competitions. Some social mechanisms used to popularize swimming included practices and exhibitions at civic festivals, competitions sponsored by the Liceo de Costa Rica and the organization of charity competitions.