Children and youth ages 8 to 16 have been learning about water safety, lifesaving techniques and the use of rescue equipment in Atlantique, Fire Island, in preparation for the New York State Level 1 Ocean Lifeguard Test.
The youth lifeguards of this Long Island municipality put their skills to the test in a four-event competition held on August 15 that challenged their endurance, speed, swimming ability and agility, demonstrating the valuable skills they have developed throughout the program.
“We are very proud of everyone who participated in learning these important lifesaving skills,” stated Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter.
“This year was especially notable as two junior lifeguards dominated the beach. For the first time in the history of the program, a ‘King of the Beach’ was named and we also welcomed our third ‘Queen of the Beach’ (Queen of the Beach).”
“These honors are only awarded to competitors who place first in all four events, so it is truly extraordinary to see a King and Queen accomplish this feat in the same year,” Carpenter emphasized.
The 7-week program teaches participants to identify dangerous conditions in the water and introduces them to the roles and responsibilities of an ocean lifeguard. The program is managed by Open Water Swim Long Island.
For more information about future programs, contact the Islip Township Sports and Aquatics Division at 631-224-5404.
