UAE National Lifeguard Championships takeover Al Aqah

December 2015 marked the 10th annual edition of the UAE Lifesaving Competition in Al Aqah; this year saw 130 participants, all of whom are certified lifeguards employed at pools, beaches, and waterparks across the country.

 

Initially founded as a friendly competition between hotels and a showcase of employee skills, the event also became a way to raise awareness about water safety education. It recognized the skills and fitness required of the lifeguards working at the resorts and waterparks. The event is always held in December as the region starts to benefit from better weather and the beaches and pools start to see more traffic.

 

This year, 26 teams from across the country took part in the Championship. Teams are 5 lifeguards, and tests include a 1-kilometer run on the beach, then 400-metres swimming in the ocean followed by more tests of running and swimming. There is also a round featuring a rescue activity, among other events.

 

New to the competition this year was a dedicated women’s category, highlighting a growing and important demand for female lifeguards. Women are however, invited to compete in all categories.

 

The winners of the best individual lifeguard in the men’s and women’s categories were Nasun Nayanajith (Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort Fujairah), and Chantelle Du Plessis, from Wild Wadi. The men’s and women’s teams from Wild Wadi won first place in the teams category.

 

The long day finished with a Prize Giving Ceremony and Gala Dinner in the gardens of Al Aqah.

 

The 10th UAE National Lifeguard Championship saw teams from across the participants praised the organization of the event, noting that it improves with each year. Over the past decade, more than 800 lifeguards have competed in 17 events.

 

26 teams of lifeguards from across the UAE competed for the  individual and team honours in beach events that challenge their lifesaving skills at the 10th Anniversary of the UAE Lifeguard Championship that took place.

 

Another first for the event was the inclusion of eight young marshals from Dubai English Speaking College (DESC) who volunteered for the event. and were accompanied by two of their teachers.

 

Photos: Jessica Pakenham-Money