Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships 2022 set to commence in Sydney

For the first time in two years, top lifesaving athletes will compete for a place on the Australian Lifesaving Team at the Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships in Sydney this week.

This qualifying event was last held in January 2020 in Western Australia, with the COVID-19 pandemic halting the national competition in 2021 and delaying 2022.

Typically held in January, the three days of intense competition was rescheduled to June in 2022 to allow athletes from all States and Territories to travel to Sydney for the event.

The Championships, which take place from Saturday 11th June to Monday 13th June 2022 at Pymble Ladies College Aquatic and Fitness Centre, test each competitor’s abilities in lifesaving through a series of challenge events that simulate real lifesaving situations and emergencies.

These events include the Manikin Carry, Manikin Tow, Line Throw, Obstacle Swim and the Simulated Emergency Response Competition (SERC) - a timed event where lifesavers are tested on their initiative, judgement, knowledge and skills. All the events are based on rescuing a person who is in immediate danger.

The Championships are held each year and take place in a different state/territory across the country.

The stakes are high - competitors at the Championships have the opportunity to be selected for the Australian Lifesaving Team that goes on to represent Australia at the Lifesaving World Championships in Riccione, Italy from 21st September to 2nd October 2022.

Delighted to welcome everyone to NSW for this year’s Championships, Royal Life Saving Society – NSW Chief Executive, Michael Ilinsky advised “the Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships showcases our elite and emerging talent from across the country.

“The event is an opportunity to showcase the sport of Pool Lifesaving, and the stage is set for a great competition as State and Territory teams battle it out for the Championship title.

“Competitors require a high level of fitness as well as speed, agility, skill, technique, initiative and precision to perform at their best against the best. Their dedication and athleticism is to be applauded.

“In hosting this event, we hope to inspire others in the community to embark on their own lifesaving journey by taking their swimming to the next level and take up the sport, while learning key life skills.”

Image: Action from the Australian Pool Lifesaving Championships.