Amanzimtoti surfer (12) rescues holidaymaker in distress as school holidays kick off

THE school holidays kicked off with a sea rescue carried out at Baggies Beachon Friday afternoon, 15 March by local surfer Luc Lepront (12).

In light of several recent rescues and near drownings, beachgoers are urged to enjoy the ocean wisely this holiday and obey the wishes of lifeguards.

The bather who found himself in distress was a 16-year-old holidaymaker. He was swept out from the shore and when at midbreak, his friend began signalling and calling for assistance.
Luc, who is in grade 7 at Warner Beach Preparatory and a nipper at Warnadoone Lifesaving Club, was surfing out at backline at the time. Realising the bather was in distress, Luc paddled in and with the use of his surfboard, aided the distressed holidaymaker to reach the safety of the shore.

By then, lifeguards had arrived at the scene. An ambulance was called and the holidaymaker was put on oxygen, before being taken to hospital. Luc was lauded for his quick response, which prevented what may become yet another drowning incident.

Both holidaymakers and locals are advised that bathing is only allowed at lifeguard-patrolled beaches, namely Winklespruit, Warnadoone or Amanzimtoti. It’s in the best interests of those utilising the beach to obey all rules set in place to maintain a safe environment at the beach and in the sea.

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