The six times world champion and eight times world record holder raced top local swimmers and competition winners in a length of the pool cheered on by an appreciative crowd of more than 200 dignitaries and enthusiasts.
Earlier on he cut the ribbon to unveil the £1.2 million refurbishments at the pool following a formal welcome by Taunton Deane Mayor Cllr Dave Durdan.
As well as members of the public, the event was attended by senior officials from Taunton Deane Borough Council Tone Leisure, Taunton Deane Swimming Club, and directors of the construction and design companies Keir, B3 and Mace, who refurbished the pool, as well as scores of local swimming supporters.
The two hours of ceremonies began with Taunton’s Synchronised Swimming Club – the only one in Somerset - performing two duets and routines for the packed crowd. In attendance was founder Ann Reynolds, who launched the club in 1978.
This was followed by the main event with Mark Foster swimming against seven local swimmers, including one of the best nationally in her age group – Taunton School pupil Emily Yap, aged 14.