Lifesavers from across South Africa will compete in the ultimate challenge at the Hansgrohe Masters of Water Lifesaving Series. 

The National competition will test the lifesavers' beach and surf abilities with challenges such as beach sprints, flag race activities, surf ski, surf swimming and Ironman events.  The overall winner will be crowned South Africa’s best Lifesaver with the title of the Hansgrohe Master of Water Champion - to be announced on the last leg of the series in Durban.

The contenders who have qualified for the National competition, include sixteen females and sixteen males who contribute any spare time they have to lifesaving.  They are highly talented and driven individuals, many of whom are in Matric or studying to become Charted Accountants, Financial Directors or Occupational Therapists.

When asked if any of the lifesavers have any interesting stories to tell, Samantha Murray, bronze medalist at the World Rescue Champs Taplin Relay, explains that “Saving a life is something one will never forget. Once, a young girl found herself caught in a rip tide and I swam out to save her, extremely tiring but highly rewarding”.

Lyle Maasdorp, member of the SA Under 23 team for the 6 Nations Event explains that “There is never a dull moment!  We have had many encounters with Sharks.  One close call, I remember in particular, is when a great white shark took a large chunk out of my surf-ski - while I was on it!  I only realised it was a shark when I fell off of my surf-ski and my hand landed on the sharks back!  Luckily I had 4 other lifesavers in the area who almost immediately got me onto their surf-ski and out of the water on some nearby rocks”.

Since Lifesaving started in Australia in 1906, it has expanded across the globe and saves thousands of lives annually.  In order to raise the profile of the service, as well as to keep its members fit, lifesaving added a sporting element to its portfolio of talent.  But unlike other areas of the world where lifesaving is a professional career and sport, South Africa relies on the goodwill and skills of a steadfast group of volunteers, who lend their time and effort to keeping our waters safe.

Top beaches across South Africa have been chosen as the venue for the Hansgrohe Masters of Water Lifesaving Series, including Camps Bay in Cape Town, Humewood Beach in Port Elizabeth and North Beach in Durban.  Sections of these beaches will be cornered off, allowing space for the lifesavers to compete. Music, freebies and open events for the public will add a festive vibe to the day.

COMPETITION DETAILS:
Cape Town 4th December 2010
Camps Bay
11:00 briefing – 12:00 start
Port Elizabeth 11th December 2010
Humewood Beach
12:30 briefing - 13:00 start
Durban 15th January 2011
North Beach
09:00 briefing – 09:30 start