American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 · 2018. 4. 4. · 366, Huntington Beach, CA 92648, or alm˜usla.org. American merican merican Lifeguard ifeguard ifeguard Magazine American

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 1

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 20052

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PresidentB. Chris Brewster, San Diego, CAB. Chris Brewster, San Diego, CAB. Chris Brewster, San Diego, CAB. Chris Brewster, San Diego, CAB. Chris Brewster, San Diego, CA brewster�lifesaver1.com brewster�lifesaver1.com brewster�lifesaver1.com brewster�lifesaver1.com brewster�lifesaver1.comVice-PresidentJerry Gavin, Chicago, IL, gavinlfgrd�aol.comJerry Gavin, Chicago, IL, gavinlfgrd�aol.comJerry Gavin, Chicago, IL, gavinlfgrd�aol.comJerry Gavin, Chicago, IL, gavinlfgrd�aol.comJerry Gavin, Chicago, IL, gavinlfgrd�aol.comTreasurerGreg Farry, Bradley Beach, NJ, jgfarry�webtv.netGreg Farry, Bradley Beach, NJ, jgfarry�webtv.netGreg Farry, Bradley Beach, NJ, jgfarry�webtv.netGreg Farry, Bradley Beach, NJ, jgfarry�webtv.netGreg Farry, Bradley Beach, NJ, jgfarry�webtv.netSecretaryDave Shotwell, OceanDave Shotwell, OceanDave Shotwell, OceanDave Shotwell, OceanDave Shotwell, OceanGrove, NJ,Grove, NJ,Grove, NJ,Grove, NJ,Grove, NJ, daveshotwell�earthlink.net daveshotwell�earthlink.net daveshotwell�earthlink.net daveshotwell�earthlink.net daveshotwell�earthlink.netRecurrent Rep.J.K. “Duke” Brown, Myrtle Beach, SC,J.K. “Duke” Brown, Myrtle Beach, SC,J.K. “Duke” Brown, Myrtle Beach, SC,J.K. “Duke” Brown, Myrtle Beach, SC,J.K. “Duke” Brown, Myrtle Beach, SC, bchfrntdir�aol.com bchfrntdir�aol.com bchfrntdir�aol.com bchfrntdir�aol.com bchfrntdir�aol.comInternational LiaisonEric Bauer, Newport Beach, CA,Eric Bauer, Newport Beach, CA,Eric Bauer, Newport Beach, CA,Eric Bauer, Newport Beach, CA,Eric Bauer, Newport Beach, CA,ebauer�c i ty .newpor t -beach . ca .usebauer�c i ty .newpor t -beach . ca .usebauer�c i ty .newpor t -beach . ca .usebauer�c i ty .newpor t -beach . ca .usebauer�c i ty .newpor t -beach . ca .usAdvisor Tim Gallagher, GALLAGHERTIMOTHY�cs.com Tim Gallagher, GALLAGHERTIMOTHY�cs.com Tim Gallagher, GALLAGHERTIMOTHY�cs.com Tim Gallagher, GALLAGHERTIMOTHY�cs.com Tim Gallagher, GALLAGHERTIMOTHY�cs.comMedical AdvisorDr. Peter Werniki, Vero Beach, FL,Dr. Peter Werniki, Vero Beach, FL,Dr. Peter Werniki, Vero Beach, FL,Dr. Peter Werniki, Vero Beach, FL,Dr. Peter Werniki, Vero Beach, FL, wernicki�hotmail.com wernicki�hotmail.com wernicki�hotmail.com wernicki�hotmail.com wernicki�hotmail.comUSLA Legal AdvisorChip More, Mid-Atlantic, JMoreLaw�aol.comChip More, Mid-Atlantic, JMoreLaw�aol.comChip More, Mid-Atlantic, JMoreLaw�aol.comChip More, Mid-Atlantic, JMoreLaw�aol.comChip More, Mid-Atlantic, JMoreLaw�aol.com

Publisher/EditorMike Bartlett, Huntington Beach, CAMike Bartlett, Huntington Beach, CAMike Bartlett, Huntington Beach, CAMike Bartlett, Huntington Beach, CAMike Bartlett, Huntington Beach, CA alm�usla.org alm�usla.org alm�usla.org alm�usla.org alm�usla.orgStaff WritersEric Sandy, Del Mar, CAEric Sandy, Del Mar, CAEric Sandy, Del Mar, CAEric Sandy, Del Mar, CAEric Sandy, Del Mar, CAB. Chris Brewster, San Diego, CA,B. Chris Brewster, San Diego, CA,B. Chris Brewster, San Diego, CA,B. Chris Brewster, San Diego, CA,B. Chris Brewster, San Diego, CA, brewster�lifesaver1.com brewster�lifesaver1.com brewster�lifesaver1.com brewster�lifesaver1.com brewster�lifesaver1.comDr. Peter Hartsock, US Public Health ServiceDr. Peter Hartsock, US Public Health ServiceDr. Peter Hartsock, US Public Health ServiceDr. Peter Hartsock, US Public Health ServiceDr. Peter Hartsock, US Public Health ServiceRick Gould, Santa Clarita, CARick Gould, Santa Clarita, CARick Gould, Santa Clarita, CARick Gould, Santa Clarita, CARick Gould, Santa Clarita, CA RGOULD�santa-clarita.com RGOULD�santa-clarita.com RGOULD�santa-clarita.com RGOULD�santa-clarita.com RGOULD�santa-clarita.comVince Lombardi, Camp Pendleton, CAVince Lombardi, Camp Pendleton, CAVince Lombardi, Camp Pendleton, CAVince Lombardi, Camp Pendleton, CAVince Lombardi, Camp Pendleton, CAPhil Rogers, Mid-AtlanticPhil Rogers, Mid-AtlanticPhil Rogers, Mid-AtlanticPhil Rogers, Mid-AtlanticPhil Rogers, Mid-AtlanticFinancial AdvisorGreg Farry, Bradley Beach, NJ, Greg Farry, Bradley Beach, NJ, Greg Farry, Bradley Beach, NJ, Greg Farry, Bradley Beach, NJ, Greg Farry, Bradley Beach, NJ, jgfarry�webtv.netjgfarry�webtv.netjgfarry�webtv.netjgfarry�webtv.netjgfarry�webtv.netMembership LiaisonCharlie Hartl, Avon-By-the-Sea,Charlie Hartl, Avon-By-the-Sea,Charlie Hartl, Avon-By-the-Sea,Charlie Hartl, Avon-By-the-Sea,Charlie Hartl, Avon-By-the-Sea, guard4life�aol.com guard4life�aol.com guard4life�aol.com guard4life�aol.com guard4life�aol.comDesign/TypesettingRenee Story, L.A. County, CA, renee�story.netRenee Story, L.A. County, CA, renee�story.netRenee Story, L.A. County, CA, renee�story.netRenee Story, L.A. County, CA, renee�story.netRenee Story, L.A. County, CA, renee�story.netStaff PhotographersPhil Rogers, Mid AtlanticPhil Rogers, Mid AtlanticPhil Rogers, Mid AtlanticPhil Rogers, Mid AtlanticPhil Rogers, Mid AtlanticAndrew Healey, Point Lookout, NYAndrew Healey, Point Lookout, NYAndrew Healey, Point Lookout, NYAndrew Healey, Point Lookout, NYAndrew Healey, Point Lookout, NYFrank Arena, Piscataway, NJFrank Arena, Piscataway, NJFrank Arena, Piscataway, NJFrank Arena, Piscataway, NJFrank Arena, Piscataway, NJ

USLA Executive BoardUSLA Executive BoardUSLA Executive BoardUSLA Executive BoardUSLA Executive Board

American Lifeguard Magazine StaffAmerican Lifeguard Magazine StaffAmerican Lifeguard Magazine StaffAmerican Lifeguard Magazine StaffAmerican Lifeguard Magazine Staff

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USLA Regional PresidentsUSLA Regional PresidentsUSLA Regional PresidentsUSLA Regional PresidentsUSLA Regional PresidentsNew EnglandRian Wilkinson, staff�marine-rescue.comRian Wilkinson, staff�marine-rescue.comRian Wilkinson, staff�marine-rescue.comRian Wilkinson, staff�marine-rescue.comRian Wilkinson, staff�marine-rescue.comMid-AtlanticEd Zebrowski, EAZebrowski�netscape.netEd Zebrowski, EAZebrowski�netscape.netEd Zebrowski, EAZebrowski�netscape.netEd Zebrowski, EAZebrowski�netscape.netEd Zebrowski, EAZebrowski�netscape.netSouth AtlanticKevin Sweat, ksweat�CO.volusia.fl .usKevin Sweat, ksweat�CO.volusia.fl .usKevin Sweat, ksweat�CO.volusia.fl .usKevin Sweat, ksweat�CO.volusia.fl .usKevin Sweat, ksweat�CO.volusia.fl .usSoutheastPatrick McGlammery, squidmcg�gate.netPatrick McGlammery, squidmcg�gate.netPatrick McGlammery, squidmcg�gate.netPatrick McGlammery, squidmcg�gate.netPatrick McGlammery, squidmcg�gate.netGreat LakesJoe Pecoraro, jppeco�aol .comJoe Pecoraro, jppeco�aol .comJoe Pecoraro, jppeco�aol .comJoe Pecoraro, jppeco�aol .comJoe Pecoraro, jppeco�aol .comGulf CoastVic Maceo, bch289�aolVic Maceo, bch289�aolVic Maceo, bch289�aolVic Maceo, bch289�aolVic Maceo, bch289�aolPacific NorthwestCathy VonWald, cathy�vonwald.orgCathy VonWald, cathy�vonwald.orgCathy VonWald, cathy�vonwald.orgCathy VonWald, cathy�vonwald.orgCathy VonWald, cathy�vonwald.orgSouthwest (CSLSA)Rob McGowan, mcgowan�adelphia.netRob McGowan, mcgowan�adelphia.netRob McGowan, mcgowan�adelphia.netRob McGowan, mcgowan�adelphia.netRob McGowan, mcgowan�adelphia.net

USLA Committee ChairsUSLA Committee ChairsUSLA Committee ChairsUSLA Committee ChairsUSLA Committee ChairsBylaws and PoliciesJohn “Chip” More, John “Chip” More, John “Chip” More, John “Chip” More, John “Chip” More, JMoreLaw�aol.comJMoreLaw�aol.comJMoreLaw�aol.comJMoreLaw�aol.comJMoreLaw�aol.comCertificationB. Chris Brewster, B. Chris Brewster, B. Chris Brewster, B. Chris Brewster, B. Chris Brewster, brewster�lifesaver1 .combrewster�lifesaver1 .combrewster�lifesaver1 .combrewster�lifesaver1 .combrewster�lifesaver1 .comCompetitionCarl Drake, Carl Drake, Carl Drake, Carl Drake, Carl Drake, carl .drake�comcast .netcarl .drake�comcast .netcarl .drake�comcast .netcarl .drake�comcast .netcarl .drake�comcast .netDevelopmentCathy VonWald, cathy�vonwald.orgCathy VonWald, cathy�vonwald.orgCathy VonWald, cathy�vonwald.orgCathy VonWald, cathy�vonwald.orgCathy VonWald, cathy�vonwald.orgEquipment ResearchDave Foxwell, Dave Foxwell, Dave Foxwell, Dave Foxwell, Dave Foxwell, rac-rac-rac-rac-rac-us la .deve lopment�worldnet .a t t .ne tus la .deve lopment�worldnet .a t t .ne tus la .deve lopment�worldnet .a t t .ne tus la .deve lopment�worldnet .a t t .ne tus la .deve lopment�worldnet .a t t .ne tGrant WritingGreg Farry,Greg Farry,Greg Farry,Greg Farry,Greg Farry, jgfarry�webtv.netjgfarry�webtv.netjgfarry�webtv.netjgfarry�webtv.netjgfarry�webtv.netHeroic ActsNikki Bowie, Nikki Bowie, Nikki Bowie, Nikki Bowie, Nikki Bowie, nbowie�ccprc .comnbowie�ccprc .comnbowie�ccprc .comnbowie�ccprc .comnbowie�ccprc .comInternationalB. Chris Brewster, B. Chris Brewster, B. Chris Brewster, B. Chris Brewster, B. Chris Brewster, brewster�lifesaver1 .combrewster�lifesaver1 .combrewster�lifesaver1 .combrewster�lifesaver1 .combrewster�lifesaver1 .comJunior LifeguardsReenie Boyer rboyer�city.newport-beach.ca.usReenie Boyer rboyer�city.newport-beach.ca.usReenie Boyer rboyer�city.newport-beach.ca.usReenie Boyer rboyer�city.newport-beach.ca.usReenie Boyer rboyer�city.newport-beach.ca.usMagazineMike Bartlett , Mike Bartlett , Mike Bartlett , Mike Bartlett , Mike Bartlett , alm�usla.orgalm�usla.orgalm�usla.orgalm�usla.orgalm�usla.orgMembershipJoe Pecoraro, jppeco�aol .comJoe Pecoraro, jppeco�aol .comJoe Pecoraro, jppeco�aol .comJoe Pecoraro, jppeco�aol .comJoe Pecoraro, jppeco�aol .comNational CurriculumCarl Martinez,Carl Martinez,Carl Martinez,Carl Martinez,Carl Martinez, carl_martinez�nps.gov carl_martinez�nps.gov carl_martinez�nps.gov carl_martinez�nps.gov carl_martinez�nps.govPublic EducationPeter Davis , Peter Davis , Peter Davis , Peter Davis , Peter Davis , pdavis�galvestonparkboard.orgpdavis�galvestonparkboard.orgpdavis�galvestonparkboard.orgpdavis�galvestonparkboard.orgpdavis�galvestonparkboard.orgPublic InformationTom Gill , Tom Gill , Tom Gill , Tom Gill , Tom Gill , tomgillva�hotmail .comtomgillva�hotmail .comtomgillva�hotmail .comtomgillva�hotmail .comtomgillva�hotmail .comStatisticsRick Gould, Rick Gould, Rick Gould, Rick Gould, Rick Gould, RGOULD�santa-clarita.comRGOULD�santa-clarita.comRGOULD�santa-clarita.comRGOULD�santa-clarita.comRGOULD�santa-clarita.comWays & MeansGreg Farry, jgfarry�webtv.netGreg Farry, jgfarry�webtv.netGreg Farry, jgfarry�webtv.netGreg Farry, jgfarry�webtv.netGreg Farry, jgfarry�webtv.netWebsiteCharles Hartl, Avon-By-the-Sea,Charles Hartl, Avon-By-the-Sea,Charles Hartl, Avon-By-the-Sea,Charles Hartl, Avon-By-the-Sea,Charles Hartl, Avon-By-the-Sea, guard4life�aol.com guard4life�aol.com guard4life�aol.com guard4life�aol.com guard4life�aol.com

USLA OfficersUSLA OfficersUSLA OfficersUSLA OfficersUSLA Officers

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President’s MessagePresident’s MessagePresident’s MessagePresident’s MessagePresident’s Message 5 5 5 5 5

Letter to the EditorLetter to the EditorLetter to the EditorLetter to the EditorLetter to the Editor 6 6 6 6 6

InternationalInternationalInternationalInternationalInternationalUSLA Club Tortuga Report 27 27 27 27 27Australian Lifeguard Legend

Rescues Swimmers in Florida 32 32 32 32 32

TrainingTrainingTrainingTrainingTrainingOpen Water Lifeguard Scanning 1010101010Training the Rookie 33 33 33 33 33

CompetitionCompetitionCompetitionCompetitionCompetitionRescue 6000 29 29 29 29 29

RescuesRescuesRescuesRescuesRescuesL.A. County Lifeguards Assist

Grounded Vessel in Redondo

Beach 30 30 30 30 30

FeaturesFeaturesFeaturesFeaturesFeaturesUlSl Surgeon General Addresses

USLA 88888

Nissan Becomes Official

Vehicle for Huntington Beach

Lifeguards 15 15 15 15 15Personal Watercraft Rescue Ops Seminar in Hawaii 17 17 17 17 17Black Cloud Lingers in Sunny Southern California 20 20 20 20 20Waterspout Comes Ashore in California 28 28 28 28 28McDonalds Air & Sea Show 29 29 29 29 29

Junior LifeguardsJunior LifeguardsJunior LifeguardsJunior LifeguardsJunior LifeguardsHow One Summer Camp Changed My Child’s Life 7 7 7 7 7JG Art 13 13 13 13 13

Cover Photo: Cover Photo: Cover Photo: Cover Photo: Cover Photo: Lifeguards rescuevistims pulled offshore by a ripcurrent in Zuma Beach, LosAngeles County, CA, August2004. Photo by Nick Steers

The USLA manages the American Lifeguard Magazine and publishes it tri-annuallywith a Summer Issue (July 1), Winter Issue (Nov. 1), and a Spring Issue (Feb. 1).The 36 page publication is mailed directly to its 13,000 members comprised ofocean lifeguards, administrators, junior guards, competitors and alumni.

The American Lifeguard Magazine serves to inform USLA members on a varietyof public safety topics ranging from training and educational programs to innovativeproducts, practices and services. More importantly, it is the only national magazine totarget beach lifeguards and open water rescuers. The rates are:

Advertisement Size One Issue Three Issues SavingsBusiness card $85 $225 ($75 each) $30Quarter page $175 $480 ($160 each) $45Half page $285 $765 ($255 each) $90Full page $450 $1200 ($400 each) $150Full page (color) $500 $1320 ($440 each) $180Inside Covers(color) $500 $1320 ($440 each) $180Back Cover(color) $575 $1500 ($500 each) $225

Contact the Publisher/Editor, Michael S. Bartlett at (714) 345-5792, or email atalm�usla.org for questions or space reservations.

ALMALMALMALMALM AAAAAdvertising dvertising dvertising dvertising dvertising IIIIInformationnformationnformationnformationnformation

UUUUUnitednitednitednitednited S S S S States tates tates tates tates LLLLLifesavingifesavingifesavingifesavingifesavingAAAAAssociation ssociation ssociation ssociation ssociation MMMMMission ission ission ission ission SSSSStatementtatementtatementtatementtatement

www.usla .orgwww.usla .orgwww.usla .orgwww.usla .orgwww.usla .org866-FOR-USLA (367-8752)866-FOR-USLA (367-8752)866-FOR-USLA (367-8752)866-FOR-USLA (367-8752)866-FOR-USLA (367-8752)

The United States Lifesaving Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhanc-ing the profession of lifesaving. The USLA promotes the profession of lifesaving in theUnited States and worldwide as a professional endeavor and as a means of public safety.It informs, educates and fosters the development of its members and the public in therealm of lifesaving. It encourages the growth of lifesaving in local chapters from a countyand state level. The USLA serves as the governing body for openwater lifesaving in theUnited States and as a participant in international lifesaving organizations and projects. Itis structured to enhance the democratic procedures contained in its bylaws. All correspon-dence other than for the magazine should be sent to: USLA Corporate Office, P.O. Box366, Huntington Beach, CA 92648, or alm�usla.org.

AAAAAmerican merican merican merican merican LLLLLifeguard ifeguard ifeguard ifeguard ifeguard MMMMMagazineagazineagazineagazineagazineAmerican Lifeguard Magazine is published tri-annually, and each member of theUSLA receives a one-year subscription as a provision of their paid membership. Ifyou wish to publish an article or submit a letter to the editor, address all submis-sions to: American Lifeguard Magazine, 15481 Cottonwood Circle, HuntingtonBeach, CA, 92647, or alm�usla.org. Entire contents � 2005 by the USLA. Allrights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a re-trieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means - electronic, mechanical,photocopying, or otherwise - without the prior consent of ALM. Unsolicited materi-als, including all photographs, are submitted at the sender’s risk and ALM acceptsno responsibility. The opinions expressed are strictly those of the contributors anddo not necessarily reflect the views of ALM or the USLA.


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by B. Chris Brewster, President, San Diego, CA

. . . . to page 6. . . . to page 6. . . . to page 6. . . . to page 6. . . . to page 6

When you think of lifesaving, you probably thinkof warm beaches, lots of

people, and the critical role of thenoble lifesaver, carefully maintain-ing safety despite constant chal-lenges. If you’re lucky, that noblelifesaver is you and your cowork-ers. Have you thought though,about the broader role of aquaticsafety prevention?

At USLA’s 40th anniversaryevent in Galveston, Texas in No-vember 2004, two speakers high-lighted what lifesaving is allabout. Bob Burnside, USLA’sfounding president and the inven-tor of the modern rescue buoy,reminded those present of thecritical role that lifeguards andUSLA have played in reducing theincidence of drowning nationwide,through an increasingly organizedand professional approach. Bob isretired now, so he has focused hisformidable energies and expertiseon volunteer work in advancingdrowning prevention in Mexico. Infact, at the very same meeting, Ihad the tremendous pleasure ofjoining Bob and others in the inau-gural meeting of the Mexican Life-saving Association. Lives will besaved. Many lives.

US Surgeon General Rich-ard Carmona M.D. also spoke. Didyou know our intrepid SurgeonGeneral is a former beach life-guard, having worked both in Cali-fornia and New York? He spokeeloquently of the tremendouslypositive things that lifesavingcontributed to the development ofhis own character. Listening tohim, it seemed as though he wasquoting the last paragraph of theUSLA manual, “I used to be a life-guard, best time of my life.” Healso spoke though, of the examplelifeguards can provide to theirpeer groups and the general pub-lic. He was referring to our dedi-cation to duty, fitness, and pre-

paredness to spring to the aid ofanyone in need at a moment’s no-tice. He urged us all to thinkbroadly about what the values oflifesaving can add to improvingquality of life in America.

On Thanksgiving Day 2004,I found myself in an unusualplace. I was in Geneva, Switzer-land, meeting with representa-tives of the World Health Organi-zation. After many years, the In-ternational Life Saving Federation(www.ilsf.org), of which USLA is amember, had finally been able toarrange a meeting with WHO rep-resentatives to discuss world wa-ter safety. It happened to fall ona US holiday. As the recently ap-pointed Commissioner of Lifesav-ing for ILS, I was there to helpfacilitate a collaborative strategywith WHO to combat drowningglobally. Perhaps you don’t know,but drowning is the second lead-ing cause of accidental death

worldwide, after auto accidents.In some countries, like Viet Nam,drowning is the greatest cause ofdeath for children. More than dis-ease. More than any other singlecause. We, representing the life-savers of the world, intend tohelp change that.

What does this mean toyou in your work? It means thatyou and your profession are multi-dimensional. You are part of aweb of lifesavers that stretchesaround the globe. Lifesavers whowill not be fully satisfied until alldrownings are prevented. Cer-tainly, our greatest expertise asAmerican lifesavers is in maintain-ing the safety of our country’sbeaches and waterways, butthink of yourself, ourselves morebroadly. We are drowning preven-tion experts and that expertisecan be used to the benefit notonly of beachgoers, but of ourcommunities, our nation, and, infact, the entire planet.

Lt. Peter Davis of theGalveston Beach Patrol knows thiswell. He recently joined me inVenezuela, where we volunteeredour time to help develop a corpsof lifesavers where none previ-ously existed. Why? Because weknew people were drowning with-out adequate lifesaving, becausewe had expertise to offer, and be-cause we were asked. Simple asthat. Peter has volunteered ex-tensive time elsewhere in theAmericas helping develop lifesav-ing programs. He was recently ap-pointed by the Americas Region ofthe International Life Saving Fed-eration as our sole representativeto the ILS Development Commit-tee, whose members work to de-velop lifesaving strategies glo-bally. Peter’s primary area of re-sponsibility is the Western Hemi-sphere, but he’ll have influenceover the advancement of lifesav-ing in every part of the world.

“Hold your headHold your headHold your headHold your headHold your headhigh. You’re ahigh. You’re ahigh. You’re ahigh. You’re ahigh. You’re a

lifesaver! Enjoylifesaver! Enjoylifesaver! Enjoylifesaver! Enjoylifesaver! Enjoythis extraordinarythis extraordinarythis extraordinarythis extraordinarythis extraordinary

job and keepjob and keepjob and keepjob and keepjob and keep‘em floating.”‘em floating.”‘em floating.”‘em floating.”‘em floating.”


Letters to the Editor alm�usla.org○

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President’s Report. . . . from page 5. . . . from page 5. . . . from page 5. . . . from page 5. . . . from page 5

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Thanks for the kudos! Your article was a nice fea-ture for our magazine and useful information for theguards on the beach. I plan on coming to Nationalsin 2005 so I’ll be sure to look you up there. I alsoplan on bringing a box of extra magazines to the Na-tional Meeting next month in Galveston, Texas.Hopefully, your regional representatives will bringsome copies of the ALM back to you. If not, I canmail you a few. See you on the beach!

Mike

Mike,Just got my copy of the magazine. The article looksgreat; thank you for printing it completely. GregDeets is a great guy and a superb waterman. Theudts have been great, helping surfers andbodyboarders in the waves here this fall. I wearthem all the time.

The USLA Nationals are here next summer.Are you coming? Please stay in touch and thanksagain. If you have any extra copies of the magazine,I’d love to buy some and spread them around theeast coast.

Mahalo, J K

think big about what you can do. Think of theplaces people may drown where and when thereare no lifeguards. Will providing more lifeguardshelp? Then advocate for more lifeguards. Will pub-lic education help? Then consider volunteeringyour time to help provide aquatic safety educationat schools, community centers, and events. Over4,000 public education lectures are provided ayear by USLA affiliated lifeguards following an oldmaxim: think globally, act locally. Contribute how-ever you can. Share your expertise so others maybe safe.

There’s one other way you can definitelymake a difference. Support the organization thatsupports you and that supports lifesaving. Main-tain your USLA membership and take pride in it.Work to ensure that your local chapter is strong.Hold your head high. You’re a lifesaver! Enjoy thisextraordinary job and keep ‘em floating.


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A self-professed wimp that would rather readthan play at recess, my eleven-year-old sonRobert’s life was changed by one summer pro-

gram. With asthma and flat feet, he was the slowestrunner in his class, and awk-ward and clumsy at anysport that involved a ball.Little did I know that signinghim up for a summer campcalled Junior Lifeguards in anearby beach city wouldchange him in more waysthan I could have dreamed.

There’s more to a dayat the beach than boogieboarding and building sandcastles. At least that’s whatRobert discovered along withother kids, ages 8 to15, inthe program offered in La-guna Beach for 40 summers.After completing the four-week day camp, my sonno longer got sand kickedin his face. Physically rig-orous and demanding, attimes the experience waseven frightening.

Try swimmingthrough the “blow hole,” ahole in a rocky reef withan underwater tunnel tothe ocean, or entering the“giggle crack,” a largecrevice in a rocky shorewith waves tumbling inand out. After sit-ups andpush-ups, kids spend theirbeach days mountingrocks from the ocean,paddling 10-foot boards in relay races, and runningtwo to three miles down the sandy shoreline. That’swhat a day at the beach means to Junior Guards(JGs).

I would not have believed my son could doany of these things � or even want to. Yet, afterstruggling through the first two days with sore feet,aching lungs, tears, a bruised ego, and not believinghe’d survive the day � he did. Not only did he sur-vive, he thrived. Robert met the challenge and hisphysical endurance and self-esteem soared.

Chad Beeler, junior lifeguard supervisor and alifeguard in Laguna Beach since 1991, leads foursessions, seeing as many as 430 kids each summergain confidence and knowledge�in and out of the

ocean .“They learn skills, such

as the proper way to gounder waves and how tomount rocks safely from theocean,” Beeler said. “Theyget more knowledge in thewater and how to playsafely. By experiencingthings like the giggle crackand swimming through theblowhole, they get gutsier,but also gain knowledgeand skills. They learn moreplaces and things to do inLaguna at the beach.”

My son kept his mindsharp because there wasmore to being a JG thansheer physical endur-ance. JGs acquire adeeper appreciation andunderstanding of the ma-rine environment�bothits hazards and recre-ational opportunities.Robert learned aboutocean safely, first aid,rescue techniques, bodyand board surfing, andmarine safety operations.He learned what it takesto be a lifeguard andthinks it’s something he’llpursue as a teenager.

Your child doesn’t need to be a wimp to benefit, butkids must pass a swim test before enrollment. Thebiggest plus is to be one of the lucky 24,000 resi-dents of Laguna. Residents have first preference forenrollment. Don’t try to fake this requirement, be-cause just like Beeler, the city staff knows every-body by face and name.

On sign-up day for non-residents, set youralarm early. At 5 a.m., a teenager walked by theblocks-long line of middle-aged parents sitting inlawn chairs and sleeping bags, and said, “Whoa!Must be some concert.”

What we parents won’t do for our kids�es-pecially if the program does so much for them!

How One Summer Camp Changed My Child’s LifeHow One Summer Camp Changed My Child’s LifeHow One Summer Camp Changed My Child’s LifeHow One Summer Camp Changed My Child’s LifeHow One Summer Camp Changed My Child’s Lifeby Elizabeth Wickham, Laguna Beach, CA

Junior Lifeguards

Pushups at Diver’s Cove in Laguna Beach.

Robert stops to smile during relays atDiver’s Cove.


The November 2004 USLA NationalBoard Meeting and celebration of the40th anniversary of the founding ofthe USLA, which was held inGalveston, Texas, was marked by aspecial “alignment of the stars.” Thisalignment was made all the more re-markable because, while some of ithad been planned and involved inten-sive labor over a long period of time,some elements of the alignment wereserendipitous, yet perfectly comple-menting and reinforcing the other el-ements.

My major involvement in themeeting started back in 2001 when Imade a promise at the USLA Boardmeeting in Philadelphia that I woulddo my best to enlist the participationof U.S. Surgeon General RichardCarmona in a future Board meeting.This promise was followed by severalyears of planning and related logisti-cal concerns, none of which provedto be simple. I am a USLA memberand, like the Surgeon General, am acommissioned officer (Captain) in theU.S. Public Health Service. I havehad to deal with the complexities ofthe federal, as well as state and local, bureaucra-cies for years and have done so fairly successfully.But the Surgeon General is no ordinary federal em-ployee and enlisting his participation in any activityhas levels of complexness which far exceed those ofactivities involving most other members of the fed-eral government.

To begin, the Surgeon General’s office re-ceives many hundreds of requests pepepepeper dar dar dar dar dayyyyy for Dr.Carmona’s participation in a vast range of activities.Added to this is the fact that, as the “nation’s fam-ily doctor,” the Surgeon General has major ongoingresponsibilities ranging from pressing public healthconcerns both nationally and globally to, especiallysince 9/11/01, homeland security responsibilitiessuch as bioterrorism prevention.

The responsibilities resting on the SurgeonGeneral are enormous and not only keep him on ahorrendous work/travel schedule but also constrainthe number of requests for participation in variousactivities to which he can accede. He is an ex-tremely dedicated public servant and his life is com-pletely filled with important and time-sensitive work.

One of the biggest factors acting in our favoras far as Dr. Carmona’s participation in the USLA’s40th Anniversary celebration was concerned is thefact that he is a former ocean lifeguard (working onboth Atlantic and Pacific coasts). Added to this washis genuine desire to be with us at the celebration.The nearly two years which I invested in working tohave Dr. Carmona join us might well not have beensufficient to get his participation without his deep

U.S. Surgeon General Addresses USLAU.S. Surgeon General Addresses USLAU.S. Surgeon General Addresses USLAU.S. Surgeon General Addresses USLAU.S. Surgeon General Addresses USLAAlignment of the Stars: The USLA’s NationalBoard Meeting and 40th Anniversary

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by Dr. Peter I. Hartsock, U.S. Public Health Service

Feature

U.S. Surgeon General Dr.Carmona addressed the USLA inGalveston, TX. On the left is Bob Burnside, Former USLApresident, on the right is MLA VP Freddy Marquiez.


and abiding love for open water lifesaving. From themoment I first talked with him about the possibilityof having him with us, he was genuinely enthusias-tic. It was this enthusiasm that encouraged memore than anything to keep working with his officefor many months, contending with many uncertain-ties, including the national needs which put severedemands upon the Surgeon General’s limited time.And it was the Surgeon General’s enthusiasm andcommitment, together with the generous assistanceof his staff, which miraculously made things work.Dr. Carmona was on an incredibly tight travel sched-ule but we were able to have him with us on theopening day of our 40th Anniversary meeting.

Dr. Carmona made a stirring presentation tothe National Board and a hall packed with specialguests, including the Mayor of Galveston and nearly30 USLA Junior Lifeguards who were given specialpermission by their schools to join us and who sat inthe first row of the audience, directly in front of theSurgeon General.

Dr. Carmona spoke of the honor and goodmemories of belonging to the special “fraternity” ofopen water lifeguards and said that his participationin the Board Meeting was like being back togetherwith family. He spoke of how lifeguarding helped himdevelop special foci and goals and the values neces-sary to realize a full and productive life.

A short note about this life: Dr. Carmona wasa Green Beret medic in Vietnam, a trauma surgeon,and a sheriff who was named one of “America’s Top10 Cops.” He is now America’s “Top Doc” and holdsthe rank of Vice Admiral in the U.S. Public HealthService. His modesty precluded him from mentioningthese facts but knowing about them makes one allthe more appreciative of his feelings about lifesavingand what this noble profession has meant to him.By the way, Dr. Carmona is now an honorary memberof the USLA, having his membership presented tohim during his talk at the USLA’s 40th Anniversarycelebration.

Dr. Carmona made gracious reference, duringhis presentation, to certain persons who had helpedhim as a young lifeguard. This included Carl Martinezof New York City. Carl was Dr. Carmona’s first life-guard supervisor and what the Surgeon Generaldidn’t now is that Carl has served on the USLA Na-tional Board for many years and was with us as Dr.Carmona made his speech. When they met after thepresentation, it was a special moment whichtouched all who were there.

During his talk, Dr. Carmona praised theUSLA’s Junior Lifesaving program, calling it a model

for national fitness and especially important as obe-sity and related conditions such as diabetes arereaching epidemic proportions. The Junior Lifeguardswho were in the audience responded enthusiasticallyto these words and were happy to speak with himand gather for a group photo with the Surgeon Gen-eral after his talk.

Dr. Carmona also spoke of the concept of“health diplomacy” and how critical it can be inbuilding positive international relations. These com-ments were especially fortuitous, as seen below.

The Surgeon General was introduced to life-saving legend Bob Burnside, visionary and a foundingfather of the USLA who also served as the USLA’sfirst president. For a number of years, Bob has pio-neered efforts to establish a national lifesaving pro-gram and association in Mexico through his “ClubTortuga,” which includes USLA volunteers. An-nouncement of the formal establishment of the newMexican Lifesaving Association (MLA) was an-nounced at the Galveston USLA Board meeting and,at the same time that Dr.Carmona was introduced toBob Burnside, he was also introduced to FredyMarquiez, newly elected Vice President of the MLA.The Surgeon General, the first President of theUSLA, and the first Vice President of the MLA madea special trio, all speaking in Spanish with eachother and giving particular credence to Dr.Carmona’s endorsement of “health diplomacy.” Dr.Carmona was interested in the Mexican lifesaving ef-forts and the role of Bob Burnside and other USLAmembers in this endeavor.

Synchronously, when Bob gave his presenta-tion on the birth and evolution of the USLA, he madea number of references to the Surgeon General’scomments about “health diplomacy” and the special“family” of those who risk their lives for others inopen water rescue.

Bob also advocated a Junior Lifeguard pro-gram in the U.S. for handicapped children. In this re-spect, I received some astounding information atthe Board meeting from one of Bob’s colleagues,Joaquin Venado, who worked to establish a truly re-markable program (the world’s first) training handi-capped Mexican youths to become ocean lifeguards.This program is being conducted in conjunction withPina Palmera Children’s Hospital in Oaxaca, Mexico.

In particular, Joaquin related how a youngman who had had polio and whose legs were com-pletely crippled and who participated in the speciallifeguard training program, would walk on crutchesto the edge of a pier, wedge his crutches in to therocks, and then walk on this hands (incredible upperbody strength) and dive off the pier to make many

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to page 12. . . .to page 12. . . .to page 12. . . .to page 12. . . .to page 12. . . .


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For most of us open waterlifeguards, when we beganlifeguarding, we were simply

told to “watch your water.” Hav-ing an analytical mind and plentyof time to think, while ‘’watchingmy water,” I questioned exactlywhat this meant. All locales aredifferent, so some of what I con-cluded may not apply to allbeaches. As they say in counsel-ing, take what is useful and leavethe rest behind.

I began lifeguarding at theage of 16, in Jacksonville Beach,Florida, in the summer of 1964,with the American Red Cross Vol-unteer Lifesaving Corps(www.redcrosslifeguard.org). TheARCVLSC is the oldest (1912) andthe last remaining (as far as I amaware) volunteer lifesaving orga-nization in the United States. Wesit for free on Sundays and na-tional holidays. (JacksonvilleBeach has a paid Ocean RescueDepartment Monday through Sat-urday.) We still even wear a rep-lica of the 1912 uniform when weguard on volunteer days. Ourtowers have names like PlummersHotel and Davis Seashell, namedfor establishments formerly behindthem, and now long faded intohistory.

Our area of responsibility isabout four miles long in a rela-tively straight line. The sand bot-tom is the same along all fourmiles, broken only by a fishingpier. The bottom slopes gently tothe east, getting to 6 feet deepabout twenty five yards out.There are shifting tidal pools,sloughs, and rip currents (knownlocally as runouts). Most of ourrescues occur just beyond thesurf line and are precipitated byswimmers caught in runouts. On afull guard day, we put out 23towers, covering the entire 4

Open WaterOpen WaterOpen WaterOpen WaterOpen WaterLifeguardLifeguardLifeguardLifeguardLifeguardScanningScanningScanningScanningScanning

miles. Towers may be as close asone hundred yards in the centralarea to four times that or furtherin the outlying areas. Most towershave 800 megahertz radios andwe still use our traditional flag re-lay system for marine accidentsand emergencies.

Scan TechniquesScan TechniquesScan TechniquesScan TechniquesScan TechniquesMost of the time I use a zig zagscan, looking in and out whilemoving my head from side to side.The area of the scan covers tidalpools and ankle deep surf to thehorizon. On busy days, I scanfrom the shore to just beyond thesurf line and scan the horizon ev-ery few minutes. Any guard withmuch experience has looked tothe horizon at some point and (tohis or her shock) spotted a swim-mer, floating object, bird or marineanimal. Most water activity takesplace just in front of the surf line.It is easy to become fixated onthis area and neglect the otherzones. Most rescue activity at ourbeach occurs just beyond the surfline. One complete scan (fromnorth to south or south to north)usually takes around ten seconds.If I see something unusual in thewater, I focus on it briefly, do aquick scan of my entire water,and focus again, hopefully addingto the information from the firstscan. Unless I know I am leavingmy tower for a marine accidentcase or first aid case, I continuescanning my water, while payingparticular attention to the pos-sible incident. When we leave ourtowers for a case, we call in onthe radio and drop our tower flag.Some days when it’s not toobusy, I divide my water into fourzones - shallow, in front of thesurf line, behind the surf line, andthe horizon - and scan them indi-vidually. Another technique I use

by David Stearns,by David Stearns,by David Stearns,by David Stearns,by David Stearns,Jacksonville Beach, FLJacksonville Beach, FLJacksonville Beach, FLJacksonville Beach, FLJacksonville Beach, FL

David Stearns is an active, USLAcertified lifeguard in JacksonvilleBeach, Florida, with fifteen yearsof active duty on the beach. He isalso the Executive Director ofImagine World Health, online atwww.imagineworldhealth.org.


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when it’s not crowded is to countmy bathers in groups, saying thenumber of people in each group tomyself as I scan.

I use a technique I call the“30 second rule” to check on my-self. It takes a bather somewherearound 30 seconds to walk fromwaist deep water back to his orher towel on the beach. If I missa bather in the water and lookback to see them by their towel, Ihaven’t looked at them for 30seconds. It’s very easy to spaceout or be distracted without real-izing it, for even the best life-guards. This is a good techniqueto monitor yourself.Scan Principles:Scan Principles:Scan Principles:Scan Principles:Scan Principles:Using different scans helps to al-leviate boredom, which along withdaydreaming and distractions, isone of the biggest obstacles toeffective lifeguarding. MauriceRudolph, an excellent lifeguardwho helped train me, says thatthe cardinal rule of effective

scanning is to keep your head moving. Even if you are tired, bored, orwhatever, as long as you keep your head moving from side to sidewhile watching your water, you (and your bathers) will be all right.

The four major principles of self defense also apply tolifeguarding - alertness, awareness, mental preparedness, and commonsense. Also helpful to effective scanning are good sun glasses, binocu-lars, a hat with a brim, staying in good health (body, mind, and spirit),

and adequate rest. Listening to music or an audiobook helps some lifeguards stay alert.Alpha Level Brain Waves:Alpha Level Brain Waves:Alpha Level Brain Waves:Alpha Level Brain Waves:Alpha Level Brain Waves:The very best lifeguards are able to use alpha levelbrain wave function while watching their water.They may be aware of this technique or it maycome naturally to them. There are four brain waveactivity cycles from high alert to deep sleep - beta,alpha, theta, and delta. Beta is the highest activitycycle. This is what most of use most of our wakinghours. Alpha level is just below beta and enables aheightened state of awareness and alertness, whileburning less energy. US Secret Service agents aretaught alpha level concentration to guard the presi-dent. The basics of this technique are to relax, calmthe mind, sit straight, and breathe low and slow.Any good book on meditation, such as The Relax-ation Response, by Dr. Herbert Benson, can providefurther instruction. Using alpha level concentrationis a very effective technique for conserving energyand enhancing awareness.

I’m sure there are more scanning techniques andprinciples out there. Write a letter to American Life-guard magazine, or better yet submit an article. Wecan all learn from each other. And remember - Keepyour head moving and concentrate on scanning thewater.

Scanning.. . . from p 15. . . . from p 15. . . . from p 15. . . . from p 15. . . . from p 15

Competition and teamwork keep lifeguards in top physical condition.

A lifeguard scans his water.


Where: Where: Where: Where: Where: Miami Beach, FloridaWhen:When:When:When:When: May 5,6,7 2005Accomodations:Accomodations:Accomodations:Accomodations:Accomodations: Host Site: Wyndham Miami

Beach Resort4833 Collins AvenueMiami Beach, Florida 33140Reservations: 305-532-3600 ex. 22331-800-996-3426www.wyndham.comRates: Room rates start at $129.00. Be

sure to mention you are USLA.Meeting Registration:Meeting Registration:Meeting Registration:Meeting Registration:Meeting Registration: $150.00 before 4/1/05

$175.00 after 4/1/05$100.00 for SER & FBPCA members$50.00 for Educational Conference &Luncheon on 5/6/05

Registration includes all functions and eventsto be held. The closing banquet is includedwith additional tickets available for the ban-quet only. Please remit all registrations to:

USLA Southeast RegionP.O.Box 324, Boca Raton,Florida 33429-0324.

The Southeast Region looks forward to wel-coming all of you to beautiful Miami Beach. Forfurther information contact Gerry Falconer atgjcottage�aol.com or visit the Miami Beachsite at www.usla-mb.org.

USLA Board ofUSLA Board ofUSLA Board ofUSLA Board ofUSLA Board ofDirectors Spring MeetingDirectors Spring MeetingDirectors Spring MeetingDirectors Spring MeetingDirectors Spring Meeting

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Alignment of the Stars.. . . from page 11. . . . from page 11. . . . from page 11. . . . from page 11. . . . from page 11

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rescues in heavy sea conditions with 10 foot waves.This young man is now in college, majoring in marinebiology. His remarkable tale of coming to terms with hisdisability, conquering it and becoming more at home inthe sea than most people ever will be and now devot-ing his life to marine biology is only one of many storieswhich I heard (some of which I have seen in videotapes, including a legless girl beating everyone else,including “normal kids” in the rope climb by a mile) andwhich convince me that the U.S. and the world hasplenty to learn from Mexico and its lifeguard programfor the handicapped. This all the more reinforces theSurgeon General’s call for “health diplomacy” and offersan opportunity for Mexico to assist the U.S. and othercountries. It also validates the efforts which the USLAhas taken to work with Mexico.

During the USLA’s 40th Anniversary final ban-quet, a special collection was taken up to assistJoaquin, Bob, and their Mexican colleagues in purchas-ing equipment for their handicapped lifeguard program.

Our Hawaiian colleagues were also with us inGalveston and demonstrated their state-of-the-artequipment and training for use of personal watercraft(PWC) for open water rescues. Before the Board meet-ing, they conducted a multi-day PWC rescue trainingand certification program. These efforts were led byRalph Goto and Archie Kalepa, who many of us had metat the May 2003 USLA National Board Meeting/Hawai-ian Lifesaving Association Annual Meeting in Honolulu.

I could say alot more about the USLA’s 40th An-niversary celebration and its many successes, but Ithink that what might begin to sum it up was that itwas a true “alignment of the stars,” creating specialand positive gravitational pull which will continue tomake itself felt around the U.S. and the world. Thewords of Surgeon General Richard Carmona and USLA’sfirst president, Bob Burnside, should serve as a beaconto guide that gravitational pull and reinforce it all themore .

U.S. Surgeon General at USLA Conference withDr. Peter Hartsock.


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Junior Lifeguard programs across the country em-phasize the importance of water safety, preparetheir Junior Lifeguards for competition and hone

the skills that these young men and women will relyupon when they become professional lifeguards.While creating art and understanding its relationshipto our natural environment may not immediatelycome to mind as a key skill in training lifeguards, theGalveston Beach Patrol uses an interdisciplinary pro-gram that emphasizes the connection between artand the environment as an integral part of its JuniorLifeguard program.

In June, through a joint partnership with thenon-profit organization The Artist Boat, nearly 70Junior Lifeguards kayaked in Galveston Island StatePark and learned basic watercolor techniques thathelped them to then capture their own impressionsof the natural environment on paper.

The Artist Boat, which is dedicated to pro-moting awareness and preservation of coastal mar-gins and the marine environment through the sci-ences and the arts, is the brainchild of ExecutiveCreative Director Carla Clay and Tina Proctor whoserves as the organization’s Executive Science Di-rector. Both women have led numerous kayakingtrips and eco-tours in and around Galveston Bay foryears and also have several years of teaching expe-rience in the Houston Independent School Districtbetween them. Clay’s education in both in MarineSciences and Art and Proctor’s background in Envi-ronmental Engineering prompted them to team up topursue their passions for art, the environment andeducation and they have recently been awarded ad-ditional grant funding to continue their highly suc-cessful program.

The curriculum itself is straightforward: Clayand Proctor, along with at least one local artist, be-gin with basic instruction in kayaking and then ac-company the kids on an hour and a half kayak ex-cursion around the wetlands in Galveston Bay wherethey spend time observing roseate spoonbills andother wildlife in their natural habitat. The tour thenbreaks for instruction in watercolor techniques andthe students then create their own impressions ofwhat they see using the watercolor methods they’vecovered.

For Proctor, who led several sessions in mid-June, one of the great benefits of the program ishow it helps the kids become more reflective. Sheasks the students to find a nice, peaceful place topaint to encourage them to turn inward and to usetheir observation skills to capture what they see on

paper. “When they’re alone, they can have verypeaceful moments and observe nature. Many of usgo through our days harried and stressed and chil-dren often sense the stress and even develop it intheir own lives. We seldom have moments of peaceand quiet and for these kids, the program is an al-ternative to the TV and X-Box. They get out, getactive and experience stillness,” she says. Proctor’ssense of joining outer activity with inner stillnessseems to be a good fit with the six-week long JuniorLifeguard Program. It includes daily physical fitness

Junior Lifeguard ArtJunior Lifeguard ArtJunior Lifeguard ArtJunior Lifeguard ArtJunior Lifeguard Artby Carol Bunch-Davis, Galveston, TX


Junior Lifeguards


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Junior Lifeguards

training in the Gulf and on thebeach, assisting the professionallifeguards already on duty, in ad-dition to classroom workshops onbeach lifeguarding principles, firstaid and marine ecology.

Beach Patrol SupervisorGretchen Tyson, who along withSupervisor Brandon McDermott di-rects the Junior Lifeguard Pro-gram, shares Proctor’s perspec-tive on the program’s benefits topotential lifeguards.

“It helps them to use dif-ferent critical thinking skills thatcan be really useful in all aspectsof their lives. Combining kayaking,

Junior Lifeguard ArtJunior Lifeguard ArtJunior Lifeguard ArtJunior Lifeguard ArtJunior Lifeguard Art.. . . from page 11. . . . from page 11. . . . from page 11. . . . from page 11. . . . from page 11

painting, and observing the envi-ronment in one program is a greatway for the kids to make connec-tions between activities thatseem very different on the sur-face, but are in some importantways related. It also helps to re-inforce the value of the naturalenvironment and encourages re-spect for it which is very impor-tant for any beach lifeguard,” saidTyson.

Local artist and Artist Boatinstructor Cara Moore joinedTyson and Proctor on the mid-June tours and points out that

the final product, the picture thestudents paint isn’t really impor-tant .

“The goal is to get the kidsto use their imaginations. Art ismore about seeing than what youput on the paper and when youtap into the imagination, it canchange what you see and howyou see the world,” explainedMoore.

Tapping into creativity maybe a central concern for the folkswho lead these eco-tours, but forthe kids, the outings are simplyfun. Danielle Colombo, 11, wantsto be a lifeguard and enjoys theJunior Lifeguard Program becauseit keeps her in shape, but likesthe idea of combining watersports and painting.

“I liked going through themaze of the marshes and I likedthe painting. It was cool to seethe birds and nature,” said Co-lombo.

India Coleman and SeanFennigan, also eleven, agree. “Itried to draw the shack we sawwhen we stopped to paint, I likedusing my hands and it was a goodeducational experience and alsofun to be in the water,” saidColeman.

Fennigan says being a Jun-ior Lifeguard is fun for her and shethinks it’s a good way to spendher time in the summer. But shealso has some practical advice forany potential Junior Lifeguardswho go out on The Artist Boat.

“I flipped my kayak twice,but it was still a lot of fun. But Iwouldn’t wear my sandals again,”explained Fennigan.

Carol Bunch-Davis is a lecturer inEnglish and General Academics atTexas A&M University Galveston.


GARDENA, Calif. (September 7, 2004)GARDENA, Calif. (September 7, 2004)GARDENA, Calif. (September 7, 2004)GARDENA, Calif. (September 7, 2004)GARDENA, Calif. (September 7, 2004) � WhenHuntington Beach, Calif. city officials made a plea forhelp after losing its vehicle sponsorship last May,Nissan stepped up to the plate to become the offi-cial vehicle sponsor for “Surf City.” Huntington Beachlifeguards at the beach’s 22 towers now have ac-cess to 17 Nissan SUVs and trucks to assist theirimportant mission of monitoring the beaches andsaving lives.

During the busy Labor Day weekend � whenbeach attendance reaches nearly 215,000 � the lastof Nissan’s 17 vehicles - two white Nissan Titans -made their beach debut.

Nissan’s partnership with the city of Hunting-ton Beach is an extension of Nissan’s commitment toarea beach communities and their lifeguards. Al-ready the official vehicle of the Los Angeles Countybeaches, Nissan believes in the value of supportingthe needs of the surrounding area.

“We are proud that Nissan can offer a ca-pable vehicle line-up to support the needs of thelifeguards and the local beach communities,” saysMike Grollman, senior manager of marketing forNissan North America. “We see this as an opportu-nity to complement our presence in Los Angeles andbe a part of the emergence of Huntington Beach.”

The 17 vehicles have been outfitted forbeach support along the 3.5 miles of beachfront.The Nissan beach fleet includes one Armada andfour Xterras, both sport-utility vehicles, as well asseven Frontier pick-up trucks, the recognized beachtruck of Los Angeles County. In addition, five of theaward-winning full-size Titan pick-up trucks are alsofeatured in the fleet.

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Nissan Becomes the Official VehicleNissan Becomes the Official VehicleNissan Becomes the Official VehicleNissan Becomes the Official VehicleNissan Becomes the Official Vehiclefor Huntington Beach Lifeguardsfor Huntington Beach Lifeguardsfor Huntington Beach Lifeguardsfor Huntington Beach Lifeguardsfor Huntington Beach Lifeguards

Nissan’s partnership will run through 2006, savingthe city of Huntington Beach the cost of purchasingreplacement vehicles.

About Nissan North AmericaAbout Nissan North AmericaAbout Nissan North AmericaAbout Nissan North AmericaAbout Nissan North AmericaIn North America, Nissan’s operations include auto-motive styling, engineering, consumer and corporatefinancing, sales and marketing, distribution andmanufacturing. More information on Nissan in NorthAmerica and the complete line of Nissan and Infinitivehicles can be found online at www.nissanusa.com.

Feature

Reprinted With Permission

Huntington Beach Lifeguards patrol in their newNissan vehicles.

The Xterra can be used for night patrol and cantransport additional staff safely.

Marine Safety Officer Mike Bartlett secures a rescueboard to his patrol vehicle.



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Throughout American history,a variety of tools have beendeveloped to help visitors to

lifeguarded beaches stay safewhile enjoying the water. One ofthe most recent inventions torevolutionize lifesaving in theocean environment is the PersonalWatercraft (PWC). PWC’s werefirst used as an ocean rescue ve-hicle on O’ahu and the other is-lands of Hawaii in 1989 and, overthe past decade, have become animportant tool at beaches aroundthe country.

As part of the 40th anniver-sary celebration of the UnitedStates Lifesaving Association(USLA) the Galveston Beach Pa-trol hosted a 3-day Personal Wa-tercraft rescue operations seminaron November 1-3, 2004. RalphGoto and his team of expert wa-tercraft operators from the Ha-waiian Islands, including JimmyBarros, Archie Kalepa, BrianKeaulana, Terry Ahue, JasonPatterson, Kamaki Worthington,and Mike Slattery, shared theirexperience with 28 lifeguards fromaround the nation.

The team of instructorsdiscussed and demonstrated manyaspects of the PWC in the oceanenvironment. The training includedan in-depth presentation of the“Ocean Safety Risk ManagementProcess” developed by the Hawai-ian Lifeguards whereby Lifeguardsuse a system to provide a practi-cal method to reduce injuries, lossof property, and the loss of life.Brian Keaulana led the discussionon this system that allows PWCoperators to make rational deci-sions when dealing with the com-plex and inherently hazardousocean environment in terms of

how likely a loss is to occur, andthe seriousness of the loss ofequipment, personnel, and/or pa-tients. This model of risk manage-ment was utilized throughout thetraining to illustrate the many ad-vances in public safety achievedwith the safe utilization of Per-sonal Watercraft rescue opera-t ions .

The Hawaiian lifeguardswho led this training did so with acalm respect for watercraft res-cue. They emphasized that like allother pieces of equipment, therescue watercraft is merely an ex-tension of the skill and ability ofthe operator, and operators mustknow their limits. The majority ofthe instruction was conducted inthe ocean, refining the skills nec-essary to safely operate the wa-tercraft, communications betweenthe operator and crewperson, andtechniques that most effectivelyload and secure patients onto thes l ed .

Personal Watercraft Rescue OperationsPersonal Watercraft Rescue OperationsPersonal Watercraft Rescue OperationsPersonal Watercraft Rescue OperationsPersonal Watercraft Rescue OperationsSeminar Instructed by Hawaiian LifeguardsSeminar Instructed by Hawaiian LifeguardsSeminar Instructed by Hawaiian LifeguardsSeminar Instructed by Hawaiian LifeguardsSeminar Instructed by Hawaiian Lifeguardsby Bert Whitaker,Northwest

Mahalo to the Hawaiianlifesavers who shared their time,knowledge and experience withthe group. This seminar was thefirst of its kind to be included asone component of the USLA Na-tional Board of Directors meeting,and it was a huge success withthose who attended going homewith valuable experiences and les-sons to share. This trainingbrought lifeguards together, and itillustrated that we always havesomething in common. We comefrom different areas of the nation,different working conditions, anddifferent challenges along our wa-ters, but we all have a desire tohelp people and improve our abil-ity to save lives. That is the rootof our profession, and when youget an opportunity to feel thisbond with lifesavers from aroundthe country you can better un-derstand what it means to be alifeguard for life.

The PWC has been an essential rescue tool for lifeguards nationwide.


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Feature

Southern California was hot this past year. Withvirtually no major storms prior to December2004, there were a few exceptional days

when the “Black Cloud” lingered. In fact, from Sum-mer 2003 to the end of Summer 2004, SouthernCalifornia had a meager six inches of rain, less thanhalf its annual rainfall average of fourteen inches.Meteorologists say that we are six years into adrought with no end in sight.

Don’t count on the “Black Cloud” to deliverany rain soon either. That’s right, the “Black Cloud”is here in Southern California and Huntington Beach.In fact, every city and every agency has one. Policeand fire departments, ambulance services, and life-guard services, all have their version of the “BlackCloud” employee. You know that one guy who isbetter known as the “sh-t magnet”. Crazy thingshappen whenever the “Black Cloud” is on duty. Dayswill pass when nothing eventful occurs until the“Black Cloud” reports to work. It isn’t the routine

calls that occur when they are on shift, but morelike the bizarre and the unusual that frequently oc-cur.

For many years, Huntington Beach Lifeguardswould unanimously agree that their “Black Cloud”employee was a seasonal lifeguard supervisor namedEric McCoy. It didn’t matter where, why or how ithappened. It just mattered WHEN it would happen.And it would happen regularly when McCoy wasworking. If there was a shooting, stabbing or someother unusual incident that rarely occurs in Hunting-ton Beach, rest assured McCoy was working that

by Michael S. Bartlett, Huntington Beachby Michael S. Bartlett, Huntington Beachby Michael S. Bartlett, Huntington Beachby Michael S. Bartlett, Huntington Beachby Michael S. Bartlett, Huntington Beach

day and he was the first on scene. Like clockwork,you could place a wager that McCoy was on the calland you would be right 99% of the time.

Unfortunately, McCoy was hired last year asa paramedic for the Fountain Valley Fire Departmentand now works reserve hours as a lifeguard. I thinkit was at this point, for some unknown reason, thatthe “Black Cloud” curse was transferred to me! Atfirst, I didn’t realize it, but I was experiencing morethan my share of unusual and bizarre calls with fre-quency after McCoy left. Prior to this, I had myshare of crazy calls while guarding the beaches as aMarine Safety Officer since 1992, and working on anambulance for 2 � years before that. Nevertheless,I’ve seen more than my share of heart attacks,traumas and traffic collisions, but not with the samefrequency I had this past year. All that changed forsome unexplained reason when McCoy left.

Over the past year, I have experienced anunusual number of crazy calls. The frequency ofthese incidents has brought me to the conclusionthat I am now the “Black Cloud”. It is important tonote that this new reputation is something that Ineither desire nor care to continue. Please allow meto highlight a few examples to illustrate my pointand release my feeling of desperation.

After a relatively quite Labor Day 2003 inHuntington Beach, I returned to work after a familyvacation. It was Tuesday at 0800 hours when Istarted my daily workout. Schools were back in ses-sion and the beach was empty. What a great morn-ing for a jog down the beach service road, Ithought. By 0805, I ran right to the scene of a trau-matic accident in the beach parking lot. A worker,who was unloading bleacher materials for an upcom-ing motocross event, was pinned to the ground ashe loosened one of the straps on his big rig. To mysurprise, the victim was conscious but couldn’t feel

PCH closed as Air Ambulance picks up trauma victim.

Lifeguards and firefighters work to stabilize victim.


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anything below his waist. I imme-diately yelled for a worker to call911 and assisted his co-workersby relieving the weight of the ma-terials that were on top of him.The debris nearly crushed theman but his large physique prob-ably saved his life. He had a con-cussion, abdominal injuries, acrushed pelvis, femur, tibia andfibula fractures as well as a se-vere avulsion to his left foot. Theone thing holding his foot to hisleg was his sock! I was the onlyEMT on scene for nearly five min-utes before lifeguards and para-medics arrived. Police closed offPCH and an air ambulance landedon the highway, picked up the pa-tient, and then transported him toUC Irvine Trauma Center. After aseries of operations, the man sur-vived and doctors were able tore-attach his foot! Nearly six

months later, the man was re-leased and was undergoing reha-bilitation to walk again. I thinkthis incident was the start of thecurse.

In another incident, I re-sponded to a call of a man downin the parking lot area near BeachBlvd. A city manager, who was at-tending a business conference forthe California City Administratorsacross the street at the HyattHotel, decided to go for a jog be-fore the conference. He blew outhis knee as he took a running leapoff the sidewalk to the beachparking lot. He was transported tothe hospital by ambulance andwould later face months of reha-bilitation.

The next week, I re-sponded to seven major medicalaids in one day (two sting ray in-juries, a twisted ankle, a blown

out knee, two surfboard lacera-tions, one to the face the otherto the leg, a dog bite, and an un-conscious surfer). It should havebeen a nice and quiet fall after-noon, but far from it when youhave the curse.

Later, I was assigned topatrol with a media film crew for aride-along. Everybody knows thatif they are assigned to patrol withthe media, it’s a sure bet thatnothing will happen. Right? Not ifyou’re the “Black Cloud”. Withinone hour, we responded to threemajor medical aids that included anear drowning, a fractured leg,and a cervical spine injury all inmy patrol area. Needless to say,the film crew was elated to cap-ture the action.

Jumping off the pier to res-



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cue swimmers is exciting for lifeguards and entertainingfor the bystanders on the pier. When Marine Safety Of-ficers jump off the pier, the rescue is far from routine. Inthe off-season when we do not supplement our staffwith seasonal guards, MSOs are assigned to staffTower Zero. While working Tower Zero last winter, I no-ticed a Japanese tourist with a rental surfboard caughtin the lateral current by the pier during large surf condi-tions. The inexperienced surfer didn’t heed my warn-ings from the loud speaker as I later learned that hedidn’t speak English. He was quickly swept into the pierand bailed off his board. Wrapping himself around a pil-ing with his leash, he went one way and his boardwent the other. With his leash wrapped around thebarnacle-crusted pilings, he was strapped to the pieras the current pulled him under. He was unable to freehimself. I quickly jumped off the pier, gave him the buoyso he had floatation to breath, and went underwaterto remove his leash. Most experienced surfers knowthat if you get in trouble like this, the trick is to detachthe leash from your leg to free yourself from the haz-ard. The surfer was unaware of this technique and itwas a scary moment. I now keep a knife in the pocketof my board shorts just in case the curse continues.

About a week later, I had another pier rescue.This time, it was two SCUBA divers. It’s rare to seedivers in Huntington as the visibility is so poor, but hon-estly, there is NOTHING to see, really, except sand! Wecontacted the divers before they entered the water todiscourage them from diving, but they insisted theywere fine and the surf was small. Both were certified asrescue divers. One said he was a Dive Master and dovetwice a month. They said that their boat broke downand they were determined to dive that day. They kickedout near the pier, dove for about 20 minutes, realizedthere was nothing to see, and swam back towardshore next to the pier. Unfortunately, they failed toheed our warnings not to swim in next to the pier dueto the pier rip current. Both divers fought the rip by

kicking against it, but they soon became exhausted.They grabbed the pilings and screamed for help. Withthe curse in mind, I dragged one guy out of the waterlike a fish. He was so tired that he couldn’t stand up,let alone walk.

About a month later, a teenager was showingoff to his friends and decided to go bodysurfing next tothe pier at dusk. The surf was small, but the tide waslow which tends to feed the pier rip current like a river.The teenaged victim didn’t last long fighting the currentand soon began screaming for help. Luckily, a surfer,who was going to shore, as it was getting dark, heardhim cry for help. A bystander on the pier contacted theguard in Tower Zero who called the “Black Cloud”. I re-sponded to the scene and assisted the surfer by keep-ing the victim afloat. I proceeded to swim him out of thecurrent and then to shore. The victim collapsed in theshore break and it took both the surfer and I to carryhim out. Paramedics responded and transported him tothe hospital for secondary drowning. Without a doubt,the surfer saved his life!

During the summer, we had more than ourshare of rescues although the surf was small. As a re-lief rescue boat operator, I filled in to replace a boat op-erator who was on vacation. Sure enough, my first dayon the boat for the summer, the surf was the largestswell of the season. Further, there was an apparentdrowning that morning that occurred before 6 am(when lifeguards report for duty). That day was busy!We ran an extraordinary number of calls, backing uptower guards and responding to swimmers stuck in bigrips. My deckhand, Lifeguard II Greg Eisele, and Iplucked almost a dozen swimmers from the surf thatday. One call that I’ll never forget was when a beachunit called us to respond to the cliff area as a large ripcurrent was pulling two swimmers out to sea. As weresponded to the scene and backed into the surfline inthe center of the rip looking for the victims, the beachunit radioed us. They explained that the victims weremuch further out from our location. We saw two people


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Lifeguards work on getting victim unpinned.

Rescuers administer treatment to stabilize patient.

Black Cloud.. . . from page 21. . . . from page 21. . . . from page 21. . . . from page 21. . . . from page 21


Prote Fins

waving for help in the head of therip nearly 1/2 mile from shore! Wequickly sped to their location andbrought them aboard for safety.They said they couldn’t make it backto the beach and decided they weregoing to swim to the nearby oil plat-form for help. Eisele said that it wasthe busiest day he has ever had onthe rescue boat! Was it the curse?

I thought I could break thecurse by working the MTV RealityShow “Made.” The show’s plot wasto train a non-surfer girl to surfwithin a few weeks time by utilizingthe talents of Pro Surfer, BradGerlach. The 17-year old, AfricanAmerican female was never “made”into a real surfer, but simply given a“crash” course in surfing. After afew weeks of surf training, the girlentered a local surfing contest.Guess who was assigned to providesafety while MTV’s cameras rolled?

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Surprisingly, she advanced to thefinals before several strange thingshappened. Prior to the main event,the contest announcer pushed thepanic button and ordered all com-petitors and beach goers out of thewater. People were in panic mode.The announcer mistook a 20ft.whale in the line-up for a GreatWhite Shark. I yelled to the an-nouncer that it was a whale andnot a shark (we had been watchingthe whale for almost an hour). MTVloved the drama. Then, minutes be-fore the woman’s final, a surferhobbled up to our patrol unit andunveiled a deep laceration, aboutsix inches long, to his leg. MSO MattKarl and I treated him and re-quested back up to transport himoff the beach for treatment. Fiveminutes into the final heat, our real-ity surf star got pitched in theshorebreak and her longboard

struck her on the top of her head. Itwas a serious “bonk” and it wasnot staged. In a mad dash, Karl andI raced to her aid along with herSurf Pro Coach and several of herfamily members. Luckily she wasokay and went on to finish fifth inher heat despite the curse.

About a week later, I uncan-nily drove right to an area of a mantrying to rescue his dog. The 78-year old man and his dog wereplaying ball and fetch when his dogcouldn’t make it back to shore as hewas stuck in a rip. The man told methat he couldn’t watch his dogdrown in front of him in so he swamto rescue him. I heard the manscreaming for help and noticed himholding the 50-pound dog’s headabove the water. I rescued the manfirst while a second lifeguard savedhis dog. The man was bleeding fromto page 25. . . .to page 25. . . .to page 25. . . .to page 25. . . .to page 25. . . .


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Victory Dry Shirts


the waist up due to lacerations from his dog’s claws duringhis rescue attempt. Of course, he was very grateful for sav-ing his life and his dog in which a bystander caught on video-tape .

While on patrol in a remote section of our beach atthe Huntington Bluffs, I observed a vehicle driving along thebike path where cars are not permitted for obvious safetyreasons. I contacted and informed the elderly gentleman ofhis hazardous actions. I directed him toward the highway, buthe failed to comply and sped off in a panic. When I triedstopping him with lights and sirens, he refused to stop andsped off for almost a mile. The police helicopter joined thepursuit and the driver eventually lost control of his car. Heveered off the narrow bike path burying his vehicle in thesand. That’s what he gets for trying to dodge the “BlackCloud”.

Most recently, I came to work at 0800 hours and re-ceived a medical aid call a few minutes later. The report wasthat of a surfer with a possible throat laceration sitting in hiscar. After responding to the scene, I noticed the man wasn’ta surfer and he wasn’t wearing a wetsuit. He was sitting inthe driver’s seat and wearing a business suit that was blood-soaked from his neck down. His eyes were closed, hisseatbelt was buckled, and he was without a pulse. I called foremergency back up, paramedics and police. A second unitwas on scene in less than a minute and we pulled the manout of the vehicle. The victim was warm and bleeding pro-fusely from his mouth, nose and ears. We saw a handgun onthe floor of his seat and the incident was later ruled a sui-cide. With no obvious signs of death, we administered posi-tive pressure ventilations and prepared the Automatic Exter-nal Defibrillator. Unfortunately, the victim did not have ashockable rhythm, so we began CPR. We worked to save himfor nearly five minutes before paramedics arrived and pro-nounced him deceased.

Shortly after that at 6:20 pm on Thanksgiving, mybrother Todd (also a Marine Safety Officer) and I were calledout from home for a 911 call, “body under the pier”. We re-sponded together and arrived at the pier within 15 minutes,but the Fire Department beat us to the scene. A fully clothedfirefighter risked his life to enter the surf and save fourswimmers who were clinging to a pier piling and yelling forhelp. Initially, two swimmers were pulled offshore by a ripcurrent before two more swimmers became victims whiletrying to help. All four swimmers were treated by ambulancecrews and later released to a parent.

I was nearly completed with this article when the lasttwo incidents occurred. As far as breaking the curse, I’mopen to suggestions. If anybody sees McCoy, please tell himthat I miss him and come back soon!

Black Cloud.. . . from page 23. . . . from page 23. . . . from page 23. . . . from page 23. . . . from page 23

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•Perfect fins for kids, beginners, surf schools, and rescue boards.•For experienced surfers who want a fun, very easy to turn, and forgiving fin.•Flexible urethane core bends flat.•Soft urethane edges greatly reduce fin cuts.•Available in 4.5,” 7,” & 9.”•Will fit polyester, epoxy, Softops,BIC, NSP, and softboards.

•Fin bends on turns, then springs back, creating forward thrust.•Soft and flexible trailing edgemakes your board turn smooth, fluid, and fast.•Soft urethane edges greatly reduce fins cuts.•Water clear core with tint edges.•Available in 4.5,” 7,” & 9.” •Will fit FCS, Future, Lokbox, andlongboard center boxes.•Recommended for experienced to professional surfers.

•Rigid core creates good drive and projection.•Flexible trailing edge makes the boardride smooth, fast, and easy to turn.•Choice of regular and stiff urethaneedges for different wave conditions,board shapes, and surfing styles. •Flexible urethane edges greatly reduce fin cuts.•Available in 4.0,” 4.25,”4.50,” 7,” & 9.”

•Will fit FCS, Future,O’Fishl, Lokbox,Red X, and longboard center boxes.•Recommended for experienced to professional surfers.

4.0,” 4.25,” & 4.5”•Choice of FCS, Future,O’Fishl, Lokbox or Red X fin base

7” & 9” Longboard Center•Single Fin set-up •2 + 1 Fin set-up (4.0,” 4.25” Pro Teckor 4.5” Super Flex side fins with longboard center fin)

7” & 9” Longboard Center•Single Fin set-up•2 + 1 Fin set-up(4.25” or 4.5” Power Flex side fins with longboard center fin)

4.25” & 4.5”•Choice of FCS, Future or Lokbox fin base

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7” & 9” Longboard Center•Single Fin set-up•2 + 1 Fin set-up(4.5” Super Flex or 4.0,” 4.25” Pro Teck side fins with longboard center fin)

4.5” Softboard

4.5”•Choice of FCS, Future, O’Fishl, Lokbox, BIC or NSP fin base

SUPER FLEX - Safety FinsFlexible core with soft edges.

POWER FLEX - Performance FinsMedium core flex with soft edges.

PRO TECK - Performance FinsRigid core with flexible edges.

4.25” & 4.5” Shortboard7” & 9” Longboard Center•Will fit FCS, Future, Lokbox andlongboard center fin systems.

COMING SOON!Pro Teck Carbon Fins

Models for Every Level of SurfingBy Surf Co Hawaii


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A breathtaking celebration of lifesaving is on offerat Rescue 2006, near Melbourne (Australia) in 12months time.

More than 4000 competitors from 30 differ-ent nations are expected to attend the World Life-saving Championships from 10-26 February 2006and enjoy colourful Geelong, beautiful Lorne and thespectacular Great Ocean Road

Geelong Otway Tourism Chairman RogerGrant says the region is one of the world’s mostamazing touring holiday experiences.

“The Great Ocean Road is a place of infinitediversity and latest figures reveal tourist spendinghas made the region the second most popular holi-day destination, after Melbourne, in the state ofVictoria”, Mr Grant said.

Officially, the Great Ocean Road begins atTorquay (the home of surfing brands Rip Curl andQuiksilver) and follows the contours of the SurfCoast through to Lorne and beyond.

The Lorne section of this mighty road con-tains some breathtaking scenery. Huge cliffs, tow-ering rock stacks, tranquil bays, lush rainforests andfascinating wildlife and history are some of the at-tractions along the way.

Lorne itself has a special charm, with excel-lent surf conditions, mild weather, a cafe cultureand fascinating shops, and Mr Grant encourages alllifesavers to book their visit ‘Down Under’ as soonas possible.

“We would urge competitors, family andfriends to arrange their accommodation and trans-port on line at www.rescue2006.com now, giventhe popularity of the region”.

The Championships involve six separatecompetitions � national teams, interclub, master,surf boats, still-water boats and IRB � and stretchover 14 days in the Australian summer.

Rescue 2006 Event Manager, Nick Jordan,believes Rescue 2006 will be the best-ever worldchampionships.

“The combination of world-class facilities,including a purpose-built swimming pool, spectacularscenery and the famed Australian hospitality, meansthat we are on track to host the best ever worldchampionships.

“A 10-lane, state-of-the-art, FINA-compliantpool is being constructed by the City of GreaterGeelong especially for Rescue 2006 and is scheduled

Rescue 2006Rescue 2006Rescue 2006Rescue 2006Rescue 2006


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Programs continue their formation throughoutMexico with assistance from members of ClubTortuga. With progress and great pride in the

many Mexican lifeguards who have participated,overall statistics continue to show the amazing re-sults of the efforts of every lifesaving group.Drownings have decreased, successful junior life-guard programs have been established, governmentand local support is growing, and the future for aNational Mexican Lifesaving Association is presentlybeing developed.

Peter Davis and his volunteers from theUSLA-Galveston Chapter have engaged in multipletraining programs and exchanges with the Mexicanlifeguards along the eastern coast of Mexico. GusAvila, of the USLA-State of California Chapter, hastaken his team to Acapulco, training personnel inthat region several times. Victor Zavala (AMS In-terim President) and Dr. Francis Smith of Universityof Calif.-Berkeley have concluded a certificationcourse for lifeguards, Navy, Fire and Paramedics, inCabo San Lucas.

Lead by Dr. Victor Zavala and his team,Cozumel, Mexico has received extensive training inlifesaving operations, with great success and com-munity support. The Florida Chiefs Association, Ma-rine Rescue Products Inc., and Viper Fins have alldonated equipment for those “salvavidas” that havelittle financial support.

Club Tortuga is currently completing theirown website for the purpose of education and infor-mation, regarding the efforts of establishing profes-

sional lifesaving programs within all parts of LatinAmerica. When completed, this website,www.clubtortuga.org, will post a monthly news up-date with photos and other information to encour-age our Latin American Brothers and Sisters to con-tinue their battle to bring a viable water safety pro-grams to all the regions. This website will providethem with valuable tools where they will find supportand information on how to create their own pro-grams and allow them a professional arena in whichto communicate with each other and other lifeguardservices throughout the world.

In closing, the road ahead will be long anddifficult for Mexico. As members of the “LifeguardFamily”, Club Tortuga is committed to traveling thisroad with them until a strong water safety system isin place.

Progress of Efforts by Club TortugaProgress of Efforts by Club TortugaProgress of Efforts by Club TortugaProgress of Efforts by Club TortugaProgress of Efforts by Club Tortuga:Currently, we are working with the Mexican Senate,to propose legislation at a Federal level, requiringlifeguard services in all states of Mexico and estab-lishing reasonable lifesaving standards.

In November 2004, during the USLA NationalConvention, representatives from throughout Mexicomet to formalize the AMS (Association of MexicanSalvavidas). Check our website for updates.

The Puerto Escondido Oaxaca Salvavidas,who now are paid state employees, have Mexico’sfirst and on-going Junior Lifeguard program, andhave recorded an amazing record over the last year.375 rescues, 950 preventions, 475 first aids, andonly 1 drowning. This has been accomplished in oneof the most dangerous playas in Mexico, ZicatelaPlaya, which regularly receives huge surf.

Similar statistics are coming in from the otherregions of Mexico that have begun to embrace theprograms offered.

USLA Annual Report of Club TortugaUSLA Annual Report of Club TortugaUSLA Annual Report of Club TortugaUSLA Annual Report of Club TortugaUSLA Annual Report of Club Tortugaby Bob Burnside, L.A. County, CA

Puerto Escondido salvavidas are now paidemployees of the Mexicana state of Oaxaca.

Mexico’s first ever Jr. Lifeguard Program builds agiant sand “tortuga.”


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A huge water spout came within 100 yards of the HB Pieron Feb. 19, 2005 at 0730. The attached photo was takenby Marine Safety Officer Claude Panis while workingTower Zero, a lifeguard observation station on the pier.The water spout headed north to the beach area andturned into a tornado on land. It crossed the beach,jumped the wall, crossed PCH and headed up 14th Streetwhere it downed trees and power poles into parkedvehicles. Fortunately, no one was hurt. A second water

spout was later seen near the area but was much smallerin size and duration.

Water spouts which are essentially a tornado overwater are not uncommon but very rare. Water spouts arerarely caught on film as they occur offshore during stormswhen visibility is poor. Panis captured about 10 digitalphotos including an incredible video clip that was aired onvarious news channels nationwide. It is believed to besome of the best footage ever caught of a water spout!

Water Spout Approaches Pier In Southern CaliforniaWater Spout Approaches Pier In Southern CaliforniaWater Spout Approaches Pier In Southern CaliforniaWater Spout Approaches Pier In Southern CaliforniaWater Spout Approaches Pier In Southern Californiaby Michael Bartlett, Huntington Beach, CA

Water spout captured on video off of Huntington Beach Pier. Photo by Claude Panis.


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2005 McDonalds Air & Sea2005 McDonalds Air & Sea2005 McDonalds Air & Sea2005 McDonalds Air & Sea2005 McDonalds Air & SeaShow, Fort Lauderdale, FLShow, Fort Lauderdale, FLShow, Fort Lauderdale, FLShow, Fort Lauderdale, FLShow, Fort Lauderdale, FL

A breathtaking celebration of lifesaving is onoffer at Rescue 2006, near Melbourne (Australia) in 12 months time.More than 4000 competitors from 30 different

nations are expected to attend the World LifesavingChampionships from 10-26 February 2006 and enjoycolourful Geelong, beautiful Lorne and the spectacu-lar Great Ocean Road

Geelong Otway Tourism Chairman Roger Grantsays the region is one of the world’s most amazingtouring holiday experiences.

“The Great Ocean Road is a place of infinitediversity and latest figures reveal tourist spendinghas made the region the second most popular holi-day destination, after Melbourne, in the state ofVictoria”, Mr Grant said.

Officially, the Great Ocean Road begins atTorquay (the home of surfing brands Rip Curl andQuiksilver) and follows the contours of the SurfCoast through to Lorne and beyond.

The Lorne section of this mighty road con-tains some breathtaking scenery. Huge cliffs, tow-ering rock stacks, tranquil bays, lush rainforests andfascinating wildlife and history are some of the at-tractions along the way.

Lorne itself has a special charm, with excel-lent surf conditions, mild weather, a cafe culture andfascinating shops, and Mr Grant encourages all life-savers to book their visit ‘Down Under’ as soon aspossible.

“We would urge competitors, family andfriends to arrange their accommodation and trans-port on line at www.rescue2006.com now, given thepopularity of the region”.

The Championships involve six separate com-petitions � national teams, interclub, master, surfboats, still-water boats and IRB � and stretch over14 days in the Australian summer.

Rescue 2006 Event Manager, Nick Jordan, be-lieves Rescue 2006 will be the best-ever worldchampionships.

“The combination of world-class facilities, in-cluding a purpose-built swimming pool, spectacularscenery and the famed Australian hospitality, meansthat we are on track to host the best ever worldchampionships.

“A 10-lane, state-of-the-art, FINA-compliantpool is being constructed by the City of GreaterGeelong especially for Rescue 2006.”

Rescue 2006Rescue 2006Rescue 2006Rescue 2006Rescue 2006

TO: PROSPECTIVE EVENT WORKERS TO ASSISTFORT LAUDERDALE LIFEGUARDS

This year, the dates for ThThThThThe 11e 11e 11e 11e 11ttttthhhhh Ann Ann Ann Ann Annual Air & Seaual Air & Seaual Air & Seaual Air & Seaual Air & SeaShow Show Show Show Show held on Fort Lauderdale Beach are Saturday,Saturday,Saturday,Saturday,Saturday,April 30 April 30 April 30 April 30 April 30 and Sunday, May 1, 2004.Sunday, May 1, 2004.Sunday, May 1, 2004.Sunday, May 1, 2004.Sunday, May 1, 2004.

The following offer of employment from the City ofFort Lauderdale is extended to currently employedlifeguards, with at least six months experience, whoare interested in assisting Fort Lauderdale OceanRescue personnel with the event on either or bothdays of the show. Time is limited, as are positionsavailable.

Rate of pay: $13.00 per hour (9:00 a.m. � 6:00 p.m.)Rate of pay: $13.00 per hour (9:00 a.m. � 6:00 p.m.)Rate of pay: $13.00 per hour (9:00 a.m. � 6:00 p.m.)Rate of pay: $13.00 per hour (9:00 a.m. � 6:00 p.m.)Rate of pay: $13.00 per hour (9:00 a.m. � 6:00 p.m.)

(A s(A s(A s(A s(A shirt, hahirt, hahirt, hahirt, hahirt, hat, wt, wt, wt, wt, whistlhistlhistlhistlhistleeeee, r, r, r, r, rain gain gain gain gain geaeaeaeaearrrrr, an, an, an, an, and pad pad pad pad parrrrrking pass willking pass willking pass willking pass willking pass willbe provided to all event workers)be provided to all event workers)be provided to all event workers)be provided to all event workers)be provided to all event workers)

If interested in working this year’s event, please contact usat the below telephone number and an employment

application will be provided.

Telephone: (954) 828-4595

Thank you in advance for your interest.

WoWoWoWoWorrrrrk E-mail:k E-mail:k E-mail:k E-mail:k E-mail: JamesM�ci.ftlaud.fl.us

Home E-mail:Home E-mail:Home E-mail:Home E-mail:Home E-mail: JMcCrady5�aol.com


REDONDO BEACH � Shortly after 3:00pm on Sunday,January 23rd, Los Angeles County Lifeguards re-sponded to an emergency call placed by a cellularphone user to their Hermosa headquarters. Atwenty-eight foot sailboat had run aground in thickfog in Redondo Beach. Rescue units and BaywatchRedondo quickly arrived on scene and, after helpingashore the two slightly damp, but unhurt mariners,went about returning the vessel to harbor. The res-cue required nine-year veteran Ocean LifeguardSpecialist Olivier O’Connell to paddle beyond thefog-shrouded surf and bring a tow line fromBaywatch Redondo back to the stranded ship. Thecombined efforts of the Baywatch crew and land-based personnel eventually rocked the boat freefrom the shallows and allowed it to be towed out tosafe water.

After arranging transport for the beachedboaters, rescue personnel lauded the cooperationand communication demonstrated by all those in-volved. Specialist O’Connell glowed, “It was a fan-tastic team effort. Everybody was able to get in anddo their part. We were like a well-oiled machine.”That teamwork included outfitting SpecialistO’Connell with a wetsuit suitable for the cold waterconditions, a strobe for enhanced visibility and theever-present rescue can. Despite the danger posedby venturing out into the surf in the low-visibilityconditions, Specialist O’Connell never felt his life wasin danger, thanks in part to the “clear and concisecommunications”, which are “critical” to this type ofoperation. Captains Christine Linkletter and SteveKirkland, Ocean Lifeguard Specialists Phil Navarro,Roger Murray, William Harkins and Kevin Williamseach demonstrated remarkable coordination and ex-pertise to quickly ensure the safety of the boatersand protect the sailboat.

While safeguarding thirty-one miles of beachand seventy miles of coastline, from San Pedro inthe south to Malibu in the north, the Los AngelesCounty Lifeguards serve nearly sixty million annualvisitors to Los Angeles County beaches. Their orga-nization is the largest professional lifeguard servicein the world, employing a seasonal (Recurrent OceanLifeguard) staff of over 600, and a permanent(Ocean Lifeguard Specialist, Captain, or Chief) staffof 120. They respond to an amazingly diverse num-

L.A. County Lifeguards AssistL.A. County Lifeguards AssistL.A. County Lifeguards AssistL.A. County Lifeguards AssistL.A. County Lifeguards AssistGrounded Vessel In Redondo BeachGrounded Vessel In Redondo BeachGrounded Vessel In Redondo BeachGrounded Vessel In Redondo BeachGrounded Vessel In Redondo Beach

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by William White,Los Angeles County, CA

ber of rescues and critical incidents. They operateout of three Sectional Headquarters, located inHermosa, Santa Monica, and Zuma beach. Each ofthese headquarters staffs a 24-hour EMT-D re-sponse unit, and are part of the “911” EmergencyMedical System. They provide Paramedic and rescueboat services to Catalina Island, with operations outof Avalon and Isthmus. In addition to providing forbeach safety, Los Angeles County Lifeguards havespecialized training for Baywatch rescue boat opera-tions, underwater rescue and recovery, swiftwaterrescue, cliff rescue, marine mammal rescue and ma-rine firefighting. In 2001, they performed 8,038 res-cues, 12,976 medical assists and handled 1,490missing persons.

All full-time permanent positions are hiredfrom within the County Lifeguard ranks, so anyoneseeking a lifeguard career, or just summer employ-ment, must start as a Recurrent Ocean Lifeguard.The Recurrent Ocean Lifeguard Candidate examtakes place in the early fall of the year precedingsummer employment. Interested candidates mustcomplete and submit an application, and success-fully complete a 1000 meter ocean swim race and anoral interview. Candidates must be 18 years of age,and possess a valid class C Driver’s License. Thenumber of candidates hired for the Academy will de-pend on the anticipated seasonal needs for the up-coming summer. Qualified applicants will then beplaced on a hiring list for the Lifeguard Training


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Academy. Prior to attending the Academy, candi-dates must complete an arduous physical and athorough background check.

The Lifeguard Academy is an extensive 100hour course, providing the skills and training neces-sary for a proficient ocean swimmer to become a LosAngeles County Ocean Lifeguard. These skills includeextensive training in recognizing and effecting surfrescues, and certification in Cardio-Pulmonary Re-suscitation (CPR), and the State’s standards for firstaid for public safety personnel. The quantity of workreceived by a first year Ocean Lifeguard will varydepending on weather, surf conditions, and the num-ber of more senior Ocean Lifeguards available.

The L.A. County Lifeguards remind all beachpatrons to exercise caution when visiting the beachand advise the following precautions:

• Always swim near a manned lifeguard station and never swim alone.

• Check with the lifeguard for safe ocean and beach conditions.

• Never dive into shallow water. Remember, “Feet-first every time.”

• Use swim fins and a leash whenever bodyboarding.

• Keep a safe distance from piers and rocks and always obey warning signs

• A rip current can pull you offshore. To get out, swim parallel to shore.

• Never throw sand and always fill in holes before leaving the beach.

• Please do not litter. Leave the beach cleaner than you found it!

• Protect yourself from the sun. Use sunscreen and wear a hat.

• Respect other patrons and remember your beach manners.

• The bicycle path is like a road. Always look both ways before crossing!

• If you, or someone in your group gets lost, always find the nearest lifeguard.

Photos courtesy of Bill White, L.A. County


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Feature

At Miramar Beach, on Monday June 9th, 2003 at5.30p.m, 7-year-old surfer Matthew Wise wasriding his 5’6” soft rail surfboard with his Dad,

Gary Wise. Miramar Beach is a very popular SouthWalton, Florida public access beach, which is also apopular surfing location.

This particular day the surf was still runningup to 3 feet. The increased swell was the remnantsof the strong south-westerly current and wavesthat had caused nine drowning deaths along thepanhandle on the previous twenty-four hour period.

Gary Wise, a United States Surf Life SavingSoutheast Region member, PGA touring golf profes-sional, and Australian lifeguardlegend decided that eventhough the conditions werestill hazardous, that becauseMatthew was a strong swim-mer it would be safe for him tosurf with Gary’s supervision.Matthew who had been swim-ming up to 20 laps a day in thepool as well as being an ac-complished surfer for his age,would ride his board while Garyhelped Matthew through thewaves and help deciding forhim which ones to take off on.Matthew had ridden in thesesize waves before and alwaysenjoyed surfing with the older surfers.

Just before 6.00p.m a loud scream came fromapproximately 30 yards to the east and 20 yards to-wards shore from the bank where they were surfing.They both knew immediately that this was the areawhere a particularly strong rip current had formedover the previous weekend and Gary had alreadywarned many swimmers to stay away from thatarea.

A 19-year-old girl from Tennessee had beenquickly caught up in the fast moving current and gotinto trouble. Her 20-year-old male companion hadimmediately gone to her aid, even though he alsowas not a competent swimmer and found that help-ing her while fighting the strong current was morethan he could handle. They were quickly loosingtheir footing. Even though at that stage they couldstill stand, they were trying to head directly back tothe beach against the strong flow and it was onlytook a few seconds before they found themselves introuble.

Gary decided that the best course of actionwas to have Matthew catch the next wave, headtoward them and then paddle his board to them.Matthew was instructed that upon reaching the vic-tims, he was to remove his leash, and tread wateruntil Gary was able to make it over there. Withthese instructions, Matthew caught the next waveto within 10 feet of the victims and paddled hisboard right up to them, who at this stage were verydistressed. Although unable to remove his leash,Mathew and the 2 victims clung to the board for the45 seconds or so that it took Gary to porpoiseacross the bank and swim the short distance across

the rip current.Once reaching Matthew and

the victims and realizing that noother injuries had occurredother that the girl swallowingwater and them both being outof breath, Gary reassuring themthat everything would be ok andtold the couple to drape theirarms across the board. Matthewwas told to hold on to Gary’sarm while he was holding thenose of the board under hisarm. Gary then side-stroked thegroup out and across the rip tothe nearest bank where theycame out just behind the break-

ers. After waiting for the last wave of a set to passthey followed a wave into the bank where theycould all stand. Only the girl required further assis-tance walking to the beach. Once she reach theshore she regained her composure and confidenceand was able to walk up the sand unaided.

Gary spent 5 minutes talking to both the vic-tims and even though the girl was still visibly upsetand shaking, neither wanted further medical atten-tion. Finally, after the victims thanked Matthew,while Gary instructed their family to keep an eye onthem for the next few hours, they walked the shortdistance back to the condominium where they werestaying.

Matthew has had a passion for learning aboutlife saving and surfing since he was 5 and the out-come of this day shows the advantage of a childbeing a confident swimmer and learning the basics ofwater safety. Water safety classes and swimminglessons should be available to every child throughoutthe country.

by B. Chris Brewster, San Diego CA

Australian Lifeguard Legend Rescues MultipleAustralian Lifeguard Legend Rescues MultipleAustralian Lifeguard Legend Rescues MultipleAustralian Lifeguard Legend Rescues MultipleAustralian Lifeguard Legend Rescues MultipleSwimmers at Deadly Florida Panhandle BeachSwimmers at Deadly Florida Panhandle BeachSwimmers at Deadly Florida Panhandle BeachSwimmers at Deadly Florida Panhandle BeachSwimmers at Deadly Florida Panhandle Beach

7-year old surfer Matthew Wiseassisted in the rescue.


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The use of direct systematicobservation serves as avaluable tool for training

new teachers to collect data re-garding the educational environ-ment. Information gained fromanalysis of systematic observationdata is useful in assisting pre-ser-vice teachers to make informed,correct decisions regarding manyaspects of teaching (Rink, 2002).Learning and applying similar ob-servation skills is also a responsi-bility of rookie lifeguards. Unlessa lifeguard can systematicallyscan, observe and make timelyand correct decisions based ontheir observations, valuable res-cue time can be lost (Ellis & Asso-ciates, 1999; The American RedCross, 2001; Unites States Life-saving Association [USLA], 2003).Teaching the importance of ob-servation skills during lifeguardtraining is a basic skill. However,knowing and understanding howto scan, what to look for duringthe scan, and the protocols tofollow throughout a scan are fardifferent skills than actually per-forming an observation (YMCA,2001). It is not uncommon fordifferent people, watching thesame event, to have far differingperceptions of what occurred(Darst, Zakarajsek & Mancini,1989)! Using systematic observa-tion during lifeguard training helpsrookies understand the specificcriteria to look for, and adds apoint of reference from which re-flections and further practice canevolve. Taking subjective percep-tions out of observation, and re-placing perceptions with actualdocumentation of what the life-guard observed is a critical skillfor all lifeguards to master.

Agencies certifying life-

Training The Rookie Lifeguard: UsingTraining The Rookie Lifeguard: UsingTraining The Rookie Lifeguard: UsingTraining The Rookie Lifeguard: UsingTraining The Rookie Lifeguard: Usingthe Shadow-Guarding Grid (SGG)the Shadow-Guarding Grid (SGG)the Shadow-Guarding Grid (SGG)the Shadow-Guarding Grid (SGG)the Shadow-Guarding Grid (SGG)

guards generally agree on numer-ous discrete skills needed to mas-ter the requirements of a certifiedlifeguard. Beyond actual rescueprotocols and aquatic expertise,related skills include equipmentchecks, beach and water-frontscanning, determining beach andwave conditions, interaction withpatrons, timing of scans, methodsof leaving the lifeguard station,back-up protocols, emergencyrescue responsibilities and use ofemergency rescue equipment (Ellis& Associates, 1999; The AmericanRed Cross, 2001; YMCA, 2001;USLA, 2003). While keen obser-vation is a necessary and criticalresponsibility of all lifeguards, theability to use observational skillsto apply systematic observationto numerous areas simultaneouslyis a skill that needs to be prac-ticed by rookie lifeguards.

The focus on “shadowguarding” is not formally men-tioned in lifeguarding literature.However, selected organizationsrefer to the term “shadow guard-ing” informally, as a method forplacing the rookie lifeguard inreal-world situations, so that theycan spend time at an aquatic fa-cility and observe senior lifeguardsat work (Boyce, 2000). While in-formal observations can certainlyoffer a new and different per-spective than participation in astructured class or lecture format,unless specific criteria are estab-lished for the rookie to look forand document, the shadow expe-rience may not be as beneficial asintended. Use of a pre-deter-mined set of criteria, in the formof written cues, for the personshadowing (and the person incharge of training) may create amore focused learning experience,

and reinforce necessary skills.The use of formal docu-

mentation can assist rookie life-guards as they learn the many re-sponsibilities associated with ob-servation skills. The lifeguard isresponsible for observing many ar-eas. Crowds, water craft, jetties,weather, beach conditions, surfand weather conditions are someof the areas that need to consis-tently be addressed by all life-guards.

To determine the variedresponsibilities involved in observ-ing delineated water front areas,the “Shadow Guard Grid” (SGG)was piloted during the summer of2004 at Ocean City, New Jersey.The accompanying criteria weredetermined as a result of the pilotstudy. However, the grid can beamended to suit the needs ofspecific aquatic facilities (pools,water parks, beach lifeguarding).While the grid is a useful tool atany stage of lifeguard training, itis particularly useful after initialpractice has occurred using avideo of a waterfront facility inthe classroom. It is in the class-room setting that the instructorcan carefully monitor the use ofthe grid, and offer specific andtask-appropriate feedback torookies. The second step in usingthe grid would involve actuallyuse at a waterfront facility, fol-lowed my senior lifeguard reflec-tion with the rookie, focusing onthe grid documentation.

The SGG can be adaptedto any lifeguard training situation.Categories for facility conditions,number of lifeguards observed,and specific duties can beamended to replicate the realworld setting of any waterfront.

by Betsy A. McKinley, Ph.D. and Robert Ogoreuc, M.Ed.



And finally, the SGG can be usedas a companion to in-class activi-ties, where rookie lifeguards canall watch a film, scan the samevideo, then with instructor inputanalyze their responses as agroup.

An additional benefit of us-ing the SGG includes that of a re-flection tool for both rookie andsenior lifeguards. The SGG servesas a written documentation fo-cusing on what was observed,thereby permitting collaborationbetween rookies and seniorguards. Further, reliability in ob-servations (inter-rater reliability)can be determined by comparingconsistency of observations

among lifeguards at differing lev-els of expertise, while observingthe same situations and comparedto the same criteria/standards.And finally, the SGG can assistboth rookie and senior lifeguardsin pointing out areas of omissionin observation that need to bebrought to the lifeguard’s atten-tion.

Using the SGG as a meansof training rookie lifeguards, or asa means of staying current withrequirements for senior lifeguardsis a strategy that can only in-crease skills and shorten responsetime. This process provides life-guard instructors with feedbackregarding their effectiveness as

teachers, and gives rookies ameasure of their success andprogress in learning new skills.

REFERENCES:

Brewster, C. (Ed.). (2003). Openwater lifesaving: the UnitedStates lifesaving manual(2nd ed.). Boston, MA: PearsonCustom Publishing.

Darst, P., Zakrajsek, D. & Mancini,V. (Eds.). (1989). Analyzing physi-cal education andsport instruction (2nd ed.).Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics.

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by Kelly Landy Special Correspondent

Copyright 2005 South Florida Sun-SentinelCynthiaAguilar is the first lifeguard to win the annual UnitedUnitedUnitedUnitedUnitedStates Lifesaving Association/Florida Beach Pa-States Lifesaving Association/Florida Beach Pa-States Lifesaving Association/Florida Beach Pa-States Lifesaving Association/Florida Beach Pa-States Lifesaving Association/Florida Beach Pa-trol Chiefs Association 2-Mile Paddleboard Racetrol Chiefs Association 2-Mile Paddleboard Racetrol Chiefs Association 2-Mile Paddleboard Racetrol Chiefs Association 2-Mile Paddleboard Racetrol Chiefs Association 2-Mile Paddleboard RaceSeSeSeSeSeriririririeseseseses back-to-back. “It’s great,” said Aguilar, 21, aMiami Beach Fire Department Ocean Rescue Divisionlifeguard. “It’s just too bad there aren’t more girlscompeting.” Aguilar is studying to be a veterinarianat Miami-Dade Community College and hopes totransfer to Florida International University aftergraduation this year.. She began to lifeguard at theFIU north pool. “I was a swimmer first... I alwaysliked the beach scene so I tried out,” she said. “It’sa great job.” The winners of the 2005 6t2005 6t2005 6t2005 6t2005 6th Annh Annh Annh Annh AnnualualualualualUSLA/FBPCA 2-Mile Paddleboard Race SeriesUSLA/FBPCA 2-Mile Paddleboard Race SeriesUSLA/FBPCA 2-Mile Paddleboard Race SeriesUSLA/FBPCA 2-Mile Paddleboard Race SeriesUSLA/FBPCA 2-Mile Paddleboard Race Serieswere determined upon the completion of eight racesthroughout the month of January. For the Men’s Di-vision, Sean Turner from Boca Raton Ocean Rescuewon with a time of 3:53:34. Aguilar won theWomen’s Division with a total time of 4:01:29. MiamiBeach took first place as a team with Boca Ratonand Fort Lauderdale rounding out the top three.“The person that wins this series isn’t necessarilythe best paddler,” said Fort Lauderdale Ocean Res-cue Lt. Jim McCrady V, who is the United StatesLifesaving Association Southeast Region Advisor andSecretary. “Most of the time it’s just the person

Training Using SGG... . from page 33. . . . from page 33. . . . from page 33. . . . from page 33. . . . from page 33

that made the most number of races. We try to em-phasize the fact that participation is more importantthan say, individual glory.” Although Aguilar andTurner happened to be the only two lifeguards toattend every race, their respective point totalswould have given them the championship after com-peting in only six of the eight races. “A lot of pad-dlers are firefighters that lifeguard part-time or full-time lifeguards,” said Turner, who has been a BocaRaton lifeguard for 13 years. “It’s difficult to get thetime off. I’ve been very fortunate. My boss has al-lowed me to do every single race. I’m very happy.”Each race is sponsored by a different city. The firsttook place in Fort Lauderdale followed by BocaRaton, Delray Beach, Deerfield Beach, HollywoodBeach, Pompano Beach, Palm Beach County’s GulfStream Park and the Town of Palm Beach. “It’s ca-maraderie, a chance for the guys [and girls] to gettogether and practice their skills, learn differenttechniques and pass information back and forth,”said Don May, chief of Palm Beach County OceanRescue Division, which hosted race No. 7 at GulfStream Park in Palm Beach County. “I’ve been a life-guard for 37 years. There have always been compe-titions � a lot of the base of lifeguarding is basedon competition and then just staying fit and practic-ing your skills. You could be called up at any minuteso you have to be ready to go.” The competitors �from South Beach to the north end of Palm BeachCounty � ranged in age from 21 to 57. Fort Lauder-

Board MeetingBoard MeetingBoard MeetingBoard MeetingBoard Meeting

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JMACSurfchairAd

dale Beach lifeguard Milton Davila finished in sixth place. “I just got intopaddleboarding to complement surfing since there aren’t always waves,” Davila said.“You can always paddle.” Originally, the race was designed in order for the differentagencies (or beaches) to help each other lifeguard. “There was an ocean mile swimseries and they needed lifeguards above and beyond the numbers of their normalstaff to watch the number of swimmers they had competing in these ocean mileswims,” McCrady said. “So, all the different beach patrol chiefs at all the differentagencies had a mutual agreement to allow their guards to go to the other beacheson duty with pay to help them lifeguard the event. “Since we had all these guys go-ing to all these places to help them lifeguard we decided to come up with apapapapapaddddddddddllllleboaeboaeboaeboaeboarrrrrddddd competition.” At the Florida State Surf Lifesaving Awards Banquet onFeb. 25 at the Delray Beach Country Club, the top five paddleboarders will be an-nounced and will receive plaques commemorating their overall series finishing place.Besides paddleboardpaddleboardpaddleboardpaddleboardpaddleboard competitions, there are 15 to 18 organized lifeguard competi-tions throughout the year. Other races involve surf skis, ocean surf boat races andevents that combine swimming, running and paddling. KellyKellyKellyKellyKelly LandyLandyLandyLandyLandy can be reachedat gatrgrad01�hotmail.com.


Documents

American Lifeguard Magazine, Winter 2005 · 2018. 4. 4. · 366, Huntington Beach, CA 92648, or alm˜usla.org. American merican merican Lifeguard ifeguard ifeguard Magazine American