Surf lifesavers vie for coveted title

DURBAN’S North Beach is set to host the second installment of Red Bull Beach Patrol on 10 July which will see some of South Africa’s best surf lifesavers fight it out over varying disciplines for a chance at the title.

Every year eThekwini sees in excess of 1.5 million visitors, most making their way to its shores to revel in the city’s sub-tropical climate and warm waters. This makes for challenging times for Durban’s lifeguard force, who need to remain fit and alert to ensure the visitors safety in its waters – their proficiency being what stands between life and death. The event is created to honour these everyday heroes who put their own lives on the line to save those of others.

The event consists of three disciplines before the finale, swim, paddleboard and surfski events. Racers will have to complete all three in order to compete in the last part of the competition, which will incorporate all three aspects as well as a run down the pier – testing endurance and overall fitness.

Any person can enter to compete against some of the top lifesavers in the country, however the one condition is that you have to complete all three of the qualifying rounds in order to compete in the finale.

“I have grown up on the beaches of Durban and have got a long history of lifesaving and being involved with life saving,” Sportive Director for Red Bull Beach Patrol Barry Lewin said.

Lewin hopes that the racing will draw the people of Durban to the event that incorporates the iconic North Pier.

“The event follows an upside down U-shape around the North Pier which gives spectators the chance to view the action from the pier – making the pier the ideal spectator vantage point for the event. People will be able to support their heroes from a fantastic spot on the pier,” he added.

To enter or for more information, head to www.redbull.co.za/beachpatrol. Entries close on 8 July.