Some SA competitors to look out for in Gqeberha …
“ There are multiple disciplines, including swimming, running, paddling, rescues and some sprint events like flags as well as team events,” Shield explained about the championships that will be held at both Kings Beach and Newton Park Swimming Pool.
Asked what those heading to Gqeberha as spectators can expect, he pointed out:“ The championships are an absolute feast for any spectator! It’ s unique as it includes a nations series where teams from around the world represent their countries, club competitions where competitors from all over the world combine to represent their clubs and compete, and there are even masters that compete in age categories from over 30s and up.
What sets lifesaving apart from other sports is that it not only offers a competitive side, but also adds a vital rescue service to the community. As Shield explained:“ What makes us a truly unique sport is that you have to perform volunteer duty to be eligible to compete. I think that is one of the best things about the sport as a whole. No matter how big the event or goal, at our core we all began with the goal of saving lives … I love the volunteer side of the sport, a trait I hope we never lose.”
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“ For us, it’ s towards what would be the beginning of our competitive season, so the timing is crucial for athletes to peak at the correct time. For most, if not all, the athletes competing from all countries, none of them are professional or paid to compete, so the time and dedication is incredible – often balancing training, work / studies, duties and daily lives.
“ I think the pool will really surprise people. Most people immediately think of the beach and sea when they hear lifesaving, but the pool events and athletes are incredible to watch. The 50m events and relays are fast-paced and very exciting.
“ Also, the rescue events, like board and tube rescue are a core lifesaving event … On the beach, flags is always a favourite for spectators,” he added of the event which compares with musical chairs, where competitors must sprint to collect small upright flags in the sand, but there are fewer flags than competitors.
Considering our vast coastline, it’ s no surprise that Lifesaving South Africa is globally recognised as a powerhouse in the sport, with numerous world champions emerging over the years. This year, the team have been training exceptionally hard to impress on home sand.
“ We are a proud sport nation and that carries into lifesaving too. We punch hard and have high hopes always and this year on our home turf we will be hoping to show the world our abilities. This year ' s team is a great mix of experience and youth,” said Shield.
The sport is multifaceted, and different events require different skill sets over and above fitness, so there is a lot to practise and train for.”
While there have been some media reports questioning the quality of the water and security at Kings Beach and the state of the Newton Park Swimming Pool, which was due to undergo several upgrades in the build-up to the championships, Shield assured competitors and spectators that come the middle of November, everything will be in place to welcome the world to Gqeberha.
“ We wouldn’ t be South African without a little adversity or speed bumps to get through,” he reckoned.“ I’ m lucky enough to be part of the organising committee and I can assure you that we are working tirelessly to make sure everything will be ready and exceed the standard.
“ Lifesaving has a rich heritage of togetherness here in South Africa and all our guests from around the world will experience that … One of the biggest things I’ m looking forward to showing the rest of the world is how we host a big lifesaving event.
“ Every night at our local champs, entire clubs stay for prize-giving. The vibe is amazing with chants and cheers and a daily celebration of our sport and all its people.”
Some SA competitors to look out for in Gqeberha …
Hayden Hemmens( Umhlanga Rocks): A phenomenal addition to the green and gold squad. Hemmens is a former USA national team star who won a silver medal in the Surf Race at the 2018 World Championships. He recently dominated the South African Nationals, winning both the Open Surf Swim and the 200m Obstacle Race( Pool), making him a threat in both environments.
Joshua Fenn( East London): The Open Men ' s Captain is a powerful, highly experienced racer. Fenn recently captured the gold medal in the gruelling Open Men ' s Ironman at the SA Championships, showcasing world-class mastery across the board, ski, and swim disciplines.
Sasha-Lee Hemmens( Umhlanga Rocks): A premier ocean athlete who recently claimed the Open Ironwoman National Title with a clinical, composed performance, making her a strong finalist contender against the tough Australian and New Zealand fields.
Nicola Harcus( Fish Hoek): The Open Female Captain is exceptionally quick in the water. She recently beat out Sasha-Lee Hemmens in a thrilling, nail-biting sprint finish to take national gold in the Open Women ' s Surf Swim.
Beach & Sprint Specialist
Samuel Booysen( Clifton): The reigning national champion in the Senior Men ' s Beach Flags. Known for keeping his cool under high-stakes pressure, Booysen has the explosive reflexes required to challenge for a global podium. www. modernathlete. co. za 29