- Help Shape Ottawa's Future with The NAqC
- Email US!
Menu
Welcome to The National Aquatics Complex (NAqC), Ottawa’s groundbreaking multi-sport and wellness destination poised to redefine our city’s landscape and community spirit. The NAqC isn’t just a facility; it’s the heartbeat of Ottawa’s sporting world, set to become a cornerstone of excellence, wellness, and unity.
Visionary Design and Global Standards:
At the core of NAqC’s ethos is a commitment to excellence. Designed to meet and surpass international standards, our complex offers an array of world-class sporting amenities, wellness initiatives, and recreational activities. Our facility stands as a testament to innovation, aiming to not only elevate local sporting achievements but also to spotlight Ottawa on the global stage.
Community and Accessibility:
The NAqC embodies the spirit of inclusivity and community engagement. We believe in breaking barriers, fostering bonds, and nurturing a sense of belonging among all residents. Our facilities are accessible to everyone, creating a welcoming environment where every individual can explore, engage, and excel.
Strategic Location and Sustainable Development:
Strategically located at the heart of Ottawa, NAqC benefits from prime connectivity, enhancing its role as a community hub and tourist attraction. Our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is reflected in every aspect of the complex, from thoughtful design to operational practices.
The NAqC is not merely a dream but a vision in action, meticulously crafted to transform Ottawa’s sports, recreation, and community landscape. Join us on this extraordinary journey and be part of shaping a healthier, more vibrant, and united Ottawa. Discover the NAqC, a game-changer for our city, and explore how you can contribute to and benefit from this transformative project. It’s more than a place—it’s a movement. Embrace the opportunity to be part of something truly groundbreaking.
Meet the Pioneers Behind The NAqC: A glimpse into the minds driving our vision. Below, we introduce four members of our dynamic team, each bringing unique passion and expertise pivotal to our mission to transform Ottawa’s sporting and wellness landscape. These individuals are part of a broader group of dedicated professionals who embody the commitment and innovation that define The NAqC. For a more in-depth look into the diverse talents and visionaries shaping our future, explore our full team.
The NAqC will be a state-of-the-art, multi-sport facility envisioned to be the cornerstone of Ottawa’s sporting and wellness community. Our mission is to provide a world-class venue for sports, wellness, and recreational activities, setting new standards for community engagement and athletic excellence.
The NAqC stands out due to its cutting-edge design, comprehensive range of programs, and commitment to inclusivity and community development. We are poised to become a landmark in Ottawa, offering unparalleled facilities and fostering a vibrant community where everyone is welcome.
The NAqC is spearheaded by a team of dedicated professionals committed to sports and community wellness. To meet our leadership and learn more about their roles, visit our NAqC Board & Team page.
The NAqC is going to be more than a sports complex; it’s a hub for community engagement, health, and wellness. We aim to foster a sense of unity, provide a venue for local, and provincial, and national, and international events, support economic development that will benefit Ottawa through the economic impact, and promote a healthy lifestyle among community members.
There are numerous ways to get involved with The NAqC, from participating in our programs and events to joining our team or volunteering. We also welcome partnerships and collaborations that align with our mission. Visit our Contact Us to reach us and learn more about opportunities.
The NAqC is committed to ongoing growth and innovation. We will continuously explore new programs, services, and community initiatives to enhance our offerings and impact. Stay updated on our latest developments by visiting our NAqC Newsroom section or subscribing to our newsletter.
Discover Excellence in Aquatics and Sports at NAqC – Your Gateway to Health, Fitness, and Community in the Heart of Ottawa.
Join our email list now for exclusive updates, news, and events. Don’t miss out on being a part of our aquatic and sports journey!
By clicking STAY IN THE LOOP, you’re confirming that you agree with our Terms and Conditions.
Peter John Lawrence, originally from the U.K., made Canada his home in 1962 and has since woven an impressive tapestry of business acumen and athletic passion. His international endeavors span 22 countries, and he was the driving force to build 10 companies. With a strong technical educational foundation as a C.Eng., a professional engineering position in England, Peter transitioned to Canada, securing a prestigious membership with the Association of Professional Engineers of Ontario (A.P.E.O.) P.Eng. His foray from Hi Tech R&D into the business and commercial realm as a consultant honed his skills in planning, sales, marketing, and the art of business formation, development, and financing.
A passionate water polo enthusiast, Peter’s accolades in the sport trace back to his days in England, Wales, and Holland plus and enthusiastic water polo player at Imperial College, London University. Remarkably, he resurrected the sport in Ottawa, which had faded post World War II. His tireless contributions spanning over five decades to water polo earned him a coveted “Lifetime Aquatic Award.”
Beyond his business ventures and athletic pursuits, Peter has devoted the past five years to meticulous research aimed at sculpting a strategic blueprint for the founding of this world-class aquatics’ facility in Ottawa – the visionary of NAqC. As the Project Founder and Leader, he meticulously sculpted the infrastructure, design, and financing components, and rallied a robust team to fulfill the aquatic aspirations of the Greater Ottawa Area (GOA). This project has dramatically expanded to include all aquatics and several nonaquatic sports. Embarking on this endeavor as a self-funded volunteer, Peter’s mission is more than just bricks-and-mortar. It’s about cultivating a shared vision with a consortium of advisors and industry mavens.
Peter’s aspiration to see NAqC come to life within the next two to three years is ambitious, but with his unparalleled blend of determination and vitality, it’s a vision many believe in. He’s gathered a cadre of dedicated individuals, overseeing committees, all working towards one dream: an unparalleled aquatics and other sports complex for the GOA. In Peter, many see a leader whose strengths lie in effective communication, open-mindedness, and a profound ability to inspire.
Pioneering the Canadian business brokerage landscape, Greg Kells stands as an emblem of entrepreneurial acumen and profound expertise. As the President of Sunbelt Business Brokers Inc. (Canada), he has been instrumental in elevating Sunbelt to its renowned stature—Canada’s premier business brokerage firm. Under his strategic vision, Sunbelt has flourished, setting up 27 offices nationwide and amplifying its dominance through a synergy of innovative marketing programs, adept professional brokers, and state-of-the-art technology.
Bearing elite recognitions such as a Lifetime Certified Business Intermediary, Mergers & Acquisitions Master Intermediary, and Fellow of the IBBA, Greg’s accolades don’t end there. He’s a Life Member of the Institute of Business Appraisers, a Certified Machinery and Equipment Appraiser, Certified Senior Business Analyst, and a Licensed Business/Real Estate Broker. These credentials reflect his deep-rooted dedication to the business world and his unparalleled competency in it.
Beyond just accolades and roles, Greg’s international entrepreneurial ventures are peppered with leadership stints across a myriad of sectors—from hi-tech to television production. Notably, he’s shared his reservoir of knowledge at eminent institutions like Harvard, Yale, and Duke Universities, and consistently imparts insights at platforms such as Sunbelt, the International Business Brokers Association, and the National Equipment and Business Brokers Institute.
At the heart of it all, Greg remains a passionate supporter of the arts, being the devoted husband to acclaimed contemporary artist Gayle Kells. He’s a doting father of three and a grandfather thrice over. His profound community engagement echoes in his roles, serving as Chair for both the National Aquatics Institute and the Canadian Institute of Nature. His rich legacy in community service is evident, having been the founding Chair of the Canadian Institute for Conflict Resolution, President of the International Business Brokers Association in Canada, and actively contributing to various community drives. Twice hailed as Ottawa’s Business Person of the Year in the past three years, Greg Kells’ journey is a testament to his dedication, vision, and unparalleled business prowess.
Chris Finlay stands tall in the accounting landscape, having built a legacy of two decades marked by dedication, expertise, and innovation. For half of those years, he helmed his own firm, showcasing entrepreneurial acumen, before seamlessly transitioning to a partnership role at the globally renowned KPMG.
In 2001, Chris secured his American Certified Public Accountant (CPA {NH}) credential, swiftly following it up with the esteemed Chartered Accountant (CA) designation in Canada a year later. Reflecting the evolving nature of the profession, this CA designation has since metamorphosed into the Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) title in recent times.
Beyond these, Chris’s thirst for knowledge saw him adding the Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) and Certified Financial Planner (CFP) badges to his impressive array of qualifications. His dedication is further underscored by his completion of the intensive Canadian In-Depth Tax Program, spanning three years, complemented by an advanced course tailored to the tax intricacies of owner-operated enterprises.
Chris’s knack for strategy and growth is evident in his role as a part-time Chief Financial Officer for diverse businesses. His financial stewardship propelled one enterprise from a respectable $6.7M to an impressive $8.1M in a mere year. Another venture in the service domain witnessed its revenue doubling in two years, with profitability soaring exponentially under his guidance.
Away from the ledgers and financial statements, Chris is an avid outdoor enthusiast. He’s marked his prowess in Obstacle Course Races, with remarkable feats at both the North American Championship and two stints at the World Championship level. Adventure has led him on backpacking odysseys from the chilly terrains of Northern Alaska to the vibrant landscapes of South Africa. A memorable ascent of Mount Kilimanjaro stands out, not just as a physical achievement but also a literary one, as he co-penned a chronicle of the climb alongside his father.
Cindi’s journey, seamlessly bridging the worlds of aquatics and healthcare, showcases her unique appreciation for the holistic benefits of sport. As a physician, she deeply understands and advocates for the significant impact that high-level sports, particularly aquatic activities, have on both physical well-being and mental health.
Her personal connection to the water remains strong. Cindi is an active member of a local Masters swimming club, continuing to immerse herself in the discipline that aligns closely with her professional ethos. This passion for swimming is a shared family affair, with two of her children pursuing competitive swimming, echoing their mother’s dedication to the sport.
Cindi’s academic path is as impressive as her professional pursuits. She obtained her Bachelor’s in Science in Nursing from the University of British Columbia, a foundation that laid the groundwork for her medical journey. She then achieved her Doctor of Medicine from McMaster University, further solidifying her expertise in the healthcare field. Her diverse educational background, coupled with her hands-on experience in both aquatics and medicine, positions her uniquely in understanding the intersection of high-performance sport and comprehensive health.
