Huntington State Beach Lifeguard Requal – A Chilly Day
The Huntington State Beach Lifeguard try outs were yesterday at lifeguard headquarters yesterday morning. The air temperature was 55 degrees, and the water was in the high 50’s. My daughter Heather Thomson participated in the requalification swim yesterday. I enjoy watching and encouraging these candidates who braved some less than optimal conditions yesterday. Not only was the air and water cold, there was a strong current, and choppy conditions. One of the candidates said because of the chop, it was difficult to get a rhythym while swimming.
There were two events. The returning guards requalify with a 1000 yard swim which must be completed within 20 minutes. They swim out around the buoys, back to shore and run to the finish line. Below the returning guards are lining up for their requalification swim.
Getting a good start. Running into the water for the swim! Some of the candidates wear wetsuits, however some think that it is more restrictive to swim with a wetsuit.
The second swim is for the new applicants trying out for one of the few spots at one of Californa’s State beaches. Then the new candidates must also complete a run swim run. The Huntington State Lifeguards were very prepared with the lifeguard boat, guards on paddle boards, and the personal water craft was utilized as well.
Definitely one of the highlights was there were dolphins during the requalification swim. One of the applicants apparently touched one during his swim. It always inspires me when I see dolphins so close to shore.
Mike Silvestri, a trainer for the Huntington Beach State Lifeguards said that some agencies are not testing at all due to cut backs.
Running to the finish line, every tenth of each second counts as most of these candidates are trying to beat their time.
Overall, this was a very good event, with lots of successes and some who may try it another day. The Huntington State Beach Lifeguards run a very organized and safe event.
If I can answer any questions, please contact me.
Phone or Text: 949.280.0681
Email: Spaxson@roadrunner.com
Originally posted at NewportBeachRealEstateCafe.com
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Sharon, it does look cold! Good luck to your daughter! It is amazing and largely thankless work that these brave souls take on!
Hi Sharon,
You always do such a great job showcasing the beach communities of So Cal.
Can't believe that girl went in without a wetsuit! Brave!!!
Debi
Tony - they do a great job overseeing the public at the beaches. They definitely earned their positions on Saturday - the conditions were not favorable.
Lynda - thanks - I appreciate it!
Debi - The girl in the red bathingsuit is my daughter. She says she can swim faster without it. One year she wore a wetsuit though.