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Two Black Fins captains announced for two international campaigns
Tuesday, 11 November 2025Surf Life Saving New Zealand (SLSNZ) has announced the captains for its two Black Fins campaigns, both taking place at the end of this month. Cory Taylor will lead the Black Fins at the International Surf Rescue Challenge (ISRC), while Madison Kidd will captain the New Zealand team for the European Pool Rescue Tour.
The ISRC is taking place at Mount Maunganui from 27 to 30 November, and New Zealand will be competing against 11 visiting nations. Also competing alongside the Black Fins will be the Pathway Team and the Junior Black Fins.
The European Pool Rescue Tour consists of two major competitions: the German Cup in Warendorf from 20 to 22 November, and the Orange Cup in Rotterdam from 28 to 30 November.
Cory Taylor - Black Fins captain for the ISRC
Cory Taylor from Midway Surf Life Saving Club in Gisborne is a veteran of international competition and a respected leader in the New Zealand surf lifesaving community. He has previously captained the Black Fins at the 2019 ISRC in South Africa, and his appointment for this year’s campaign marks a continuation of his role.
Taylor is a multiple New Zealand Ironman champion known for his performance under pressure. He knows what it takes to perform at the international level and how to lead by example. Taylor's previous captaincy at major events means he can guide younger athletes through competition, team culture and preparation.
SLSNZ Campaign Lead Steve Kent says; “Cory is a truly great Black Fin. He speaks when it’s needed, and when he speaks it’s always worth listening to. His leadership will be pivotal as the Black Fins aim to maintain New Zealand’s competitive edge at the ISRC.”
Cory Taylor says; “I’m proud to be leading the Black Fins again at the ISRC and looking forward to competing against the best surf lifesavers from all over the world at Mount Maunganui. This is going to be an exciting event, and I’ll be drawing on my experience to help guide the team through.”
Madison Kidd - Black Fins captain for European pool rescue tour
From Whangamatā Surf Life Saving Club, Madison Kidd has been named captain of New Zealand’s team for the International German and Orange Cups. Kidd is a world‑record holder in the 100m manikin tow and has been a standout performer in pool‑rescue competitions both internationally and domestically.
With this appointment, Kidd is the first-ever female Black Fin Captain. She is known for technical excellence and dedication, and she is valued for her leadership both in and out of the pool.
Kidd says; “It’s such a privilege to be named captain for this tour. I’ve been lucky enough to be in many Black Fins teams with great leaders over the years, and I hope I can continue that in my own way. “We’ve had so many incredible women come through this team who have been great role models for me so to have reached this level is something really special. The team is looking great, and I can wait to get over to Europe and show them what we’ve got!”
SLSNZ Campaign Lead Steve Kent says; “I am so proud of Madi and her progression as an athlete. I’ve watched her compete and continue to develop since she was at the junior worlds in 2014. The New Zealand team is so lucky to have her in this leadership position.”
The selections of Taylor and Kidd reinforce SLSNZ’s commitment to prioritising both experience and emerging leadership. Both captains will lead their teams through intense international competition, balancing their personal performance with team leadership responsibilities.
Both the ISRC and the European pool rescue tour are providing New Zealand’s lifesaving athletes with elite competition experience in preparation for the 2026 World Championships in South Africa.
About the ISRC
This is the ISRC’s 20-year anniversary, and it’s the first time New Zealand has hosted since 2017. With 11 countries competing, 13 different events, and 44 races over 3 days, the 2025 ISRC is shaping up to be an incredible showcase of lifesaving sport.