Surf Lifesaving
After being involved in a novel clinical trial for nearly 12 months, an opportunity arose where I felt confident enough to consider returning as a volunteer surf lifesaver at South Curl Curl SLSC. In order to achieve this goal, I needed to complete an in depth training course, that not only required me to complete a theory and practical component, but also a proficiency test where I had to run 100 metres, then swim 200 metres through surf.
The 100-metre run across the sand is a technical challenge: sand provides significant resistance and requires increased stamina
100m
The first lap of the 200-metre swim requires me to swim through the surf - which is disorientating and challenges my spatial awareness. It is equally as challenging for the brain as it is for the body.
100m
The second lap is a test of endurance. The energy expended in the run and the first lap doesn't leave much left in the tank.
100m
South Curl Curl Beach, NSW, Australia
Having now completed all the components of this in-depth training course, I returned as a volunteer lifesaver at South Curl Curl SLSC in December 2020.
Under the guidance of Patrol Captain, Paul Torrington, I joined the rest of my mates in Patrol G.
From left to right
Back Row: Dave Hall, David Marshall, Adrian Florence, Bill Yeates, Paul Brittan, Paul Torrington, Simon Rorke, Anthony King, and Darren Ingram
Front Row: Mic Harrold and John Diggin
Besides continuing my role as a volunteer surf lifesaver, I also compete in Master's Surf Lifesaving competitions in two areas: board paddling, and pool rescue.
The following timelines illustrate my journey in returning as a volunteer lifesaver and competing in Masters Surf Lifesaving events following my diagnosis of Younger Onset Alzheimer's Disease in July 2019.
2020
Returned as a volunteer Surf Lifesaver at South Curl Curl SLSC in December
Competed in Northern Beaches Master's Surf Lifesaving Carnival and came last in my Board Race heat
2022
Co-coached two competitors in U/15 Northern Beaches Branch Champion Lifesaver Carnival; 1st and 3rd
2021
Co-coached two competitors in U/15 NSW Champion Lifesaver Carnival; 1st and 2nd
Co-coached two competitors in U/15 Australian Champion Lifesaver Carnival; 1st and 5th
Competed at Sunshine Coast in Australian Master's Surf Lifesaving Carnival and came 2nd last in my Board Race
Acted as an official at NSW Champion Lifesaver Carnival
Returned as a volunteer lifesaver at South Curl Curl SLSC for the 2021/2022 season
Acted as an official at the Branch Champion Lifesaver Carnival
Co-coached five competitors in the Champion Lifesaver event at the Branch Championships, placing 1st (U14), 2nd (U15), 1st (U17), 1st (U19), 4th (U15)
Competed in the Board Race at the Australian Master's Championships, placing 9th in the semifinal (17th in Australia)
Co-coached three competitors in Champion Lifesaver event at the Australian Championships, placing 4th (U14), 7th (U15), 5th (U17)
Competed in Australian Pool Rescue Championships
5th in 100m obstacle, and 5th in the 100m manikin tow.
Competed in World Lifesaving Pool Rescue Championships
11th in 100m obstacle course, 14th in 100m manikin tow, 14th in 100m manikin carry, and 10th in board race.
2022
Competed in Master's NSW Pool Rescue Championships. 2nd in 100 m obstacle Race and retired injured.