News

Surf Lifesaving Team to Compete in Japan

Tuesday, 8 October 2024

Six athletes will attempt to make waves internationally at the 50th Japanese Lifesaving Championships in October this year.

 

The Performance Pathway athletes were selected to the Surf Life Saving Senior Performance Squad after the Nationals and will represent their country in a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Japanese association.

 

Performance Pathway lead Holly Fletcher voiced her excitement and confidence in the team.

 

“The opportunity for our Pathway athletes to attend this competition is invaluable as it continues to develop and engage our athletes and coaches. They will also be looking ahead to put themselves in contention for the 2025 ISRC and the 2026 World Championships.”

 

The competition, which will take place in Fujisawa City, Japan from October 12-14, is expected to attract top surf Lifesavers from not only Japan but also Europe and Oceania. The event will test the athletes physically, as well as their ability to race under pressure in an unfamiliar environment.

 

Team coach Morgan Foster highlights the experience of racing in Japan. “I think it’s going be a fantastic experience for athletes. Not only will they compete at a large National Championship, but they will have to negotiate language barriers and race against athletes they’ve likely never seen before. On top of this, the competition has some similarities to a world championship format so will be a great opportunity to get used to those events.”

 

The competition in Japan will not only provide the team with valuable experience but also an opportunity to forge international friendships and promote the spirit of sportsmanship.

 

50th Japan Lifesaving Championships Team

Claudia Kelly – East End

Jordan Grylls – Oponake

Jayden Murphy - Mt Maunganui

Jack Keepa - Omanu

Gus Shivnan - Omanu

James Scott - Orewa

 

Joel Mueli – East End (Team Coach)

Morgan Foster – South Brighton (Team Coach)

 

Thank you to the Asia Foundation for their financial support.