Front row, Michael Hundt, Aidan Marshall, Jayson Horseman, River Saliba, Natalia Perico, Braeden Reid, and Michelle Wang. Back Row, Brady Phillips, Mackenzie Salman, David Parson, Kaitlyn Bull, Teagan Gottschalk, Colette Barrett, and Cassidy Kazimer.

Twelve athletes from the Saugeen Shores Lifesaving travelled to Nova Scotia to compete in the Canadian Surf Nationals for Lifesaving August 23 to 25. In an SSLC media release, the competition featured athletes from across the country showing off their lifesaving skills and competing for a chance to make the Canadian team. Events included Surf Race, Board Race, Surf Ski Race and Oceanman/Oceanwoman Race, and Board Rescue.

Much of the Saugeen Shores team started their week at Martinique Beach for ocean training as this was, for many, their first time competing in the ocean.

The week started with one to two foot waves but by the first day of competition the ocean did not disappoint and the waves were four to five feet.

The Saugeen Shores club showed their dedication and determination in the waves and came away with 28 medals and finished second overall, just 150 points behind Nova Scotia's team, making it the highest SSLC has ever placed at a national surf competition.

"Every member of the team came home a winner," read the release. "Without the support of their amazing coaches, Michael Hundt and Cassidy Kazimer who dedicate their time, experience and constant encouragement throughout the season, none of this would have been possible."

The second place finished was announced August 25 at a National Lifesaving Society wrap up banquet. At the end of the evening three SSLC athletes, River Saliba, Brady Phillips and Colette Barrett, were named to the Canadian National Team which will travel to Riccione, Italy in November 2020 for the Lifesaving World Championship. Two other SSLC athletes, David Parsons and Natalia Perico, were named to the Canadian roster.

Four SSLC athletes, Madi McNeil, Colette Barrett, Jayson Horseman and Natalia Perico, have also been recognized by being selected to the Canadian Development Team travelling to Leeds in the UK to compete in the Festival of Lifesaving in November 2019.

Photos submitted.

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