by Tara Tiedemann

Twelve lifeguards from the Costa Ballena Lifeguard Association recently attended a very special training and certification process at the W Hotel and Playa Conchal in Guanacaste from March 22-25, 2019. The training was run by ISLA (International Surf Lifesaving Association) and was the first event of its kind in Costa Rica. The goal of the event was to train and certify participants in Open Water Rescue via a series of competitive open water swimming events and rescue simulations.

There were 85 participants in the program, representing communities from all over Costa Rica and Nicaragua. It was great to be able to meet and train with other water people, all of whom are working toward a common goal – increase the number of rescues in the country.

The three-day event consisted of action packed 12-hour days, filled with first aid and CPR review, theoretical information and a lot of practical time in the water. There were four competitive swim events in a head to head open water format. Everyone entered the water in mass, swimming towards buoys at various distances and formations, including portions of exiting the water and running around flags on the beach.

With so many people in the water, it was easy for arms and legs to get tangled or to get caught behind slower swimmers. It was very intense and the level of competitiveness was high. Points were earned by swimming fast, performing a quality rescue, along with a written exam. The Costa Ballena Lifeguards earned the highest number of total points overall.

Costa Ballena is lucky to have the best lifeguards in the country. Please consider donating to keep them on our beaches.

CONTACT: www.lifeguardscostaballena.com -