The History of Aquatics: 1977-1984.

1977 Wet 'n Wild in Orlando, Fla., opens. Although opening just months after River Country, Wet 'n Wild is generally recognized within the industry as the first complete waterpark. It is developed on 12 acres at a cost of $3.5 million and includes a wave pool, gunite serpentine water slides, and a children's play pool. Attendance during its first year is reported to be 271,000.

1978 Congress enacts the Amateur Sports Act, providing the charter for the U.S. Olympic Committee. Its purpose is to promote and coordinate amateur athletes activity in the U.S., recognize certain rights for amateur athletes and provide for the resolution of disputes involving national governing bodies. National governing bodies, such as USA Swimming, are born out of the act. It is amended in 1998 to become the Olympic and Amateur Sports Act (OASA).

1978 Swimming, running and cycling are combined into a test of endurance and speed in the first "Ironman" triathlon, held in Honolulu. Fifteen competitors set out to swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles and run 26.2 miles (a marathon). Only 12 finish, with American Gordon Hailer winning in 11:45.58.

1979 According to the A.C. Nielson Sports Participation Study, 47.5 percent of the U.S. population -- more than 100 million people -- swim on a regular basis.

1979 Schlitterbahn Waterpark, which becomes a forerunner in water ride design, opens in New Braunfels, Texas, with four fiberglass water slides and a German-style castle.