Some of Canada’s top lifesavers will be competing on Nova Scotia beaches this weekend.
The Canadian Surf Life Saving Championships will take place Friday and Saturday at Martinique Beach, before moving to Rainbow Haven Beach on Sunday.
Paul D’Eon, director of the Nova Scotia Lifeguard Service, says about 160 competitors are expected.
“We have teams from all across Canada,” D’Eon said.
He says competitors are coming from provinces and clubs across the country, including Alberta, Quebec, Ontario and New Brunswick.
Events include swimming, board paddling, surf ski and running.
D’Eon says most competitors are beachfront lifeguards, but some pool lifeguards will also take part.
“They’re all lifesavers,” he said.
The competition runs from about 9 a.m. to 4 or 4:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday at Martinique Beach.
On Sunday, events are scheduled from about 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at Rainbow Haven Beach.
Spectators are welcome to watch from the beach, as long as they stay out of the competition zone.
D’Eon says the board rescue events are among the most exciting to watch.
That event sees one competitor swim out, before another heads out on a rescue board to pick them up and race back to shore.
He says it can get especially exciting when the waves come in and several teams are racing at once.
D’Eon describes the event as friendly competition, but says competitors still want to win.
“We’re all in it for the same reason, to save lives and to learn life saving and rescue skills,” he said.
He says the event gives lifeguards a chance to sharpen skills they may need in real rescue situations.
Weather can affect the competition, but D’Eon says the forecast looks good for Friday and Saturday. Rain could be a factor Sunday, but organizers are hoping to push through.
D’Eon also has a reminder for anyone heading to the beach this weekend.
“When you go to the beach, swim between the red and yellow flags, that’s where the lifeguards are,” he said. “Keep an eye on your kids and stay safe.”
