USLA National Lifeguard Championships Returns To Hermosa Beach

HERMOSA BEACH, CA — The largest annual ocean lifeguard competition, The "Jersey Mike's United States Lifesaving Association National Lifeguard Championships" is returning to Hermosa Beach after a six-year hiatus.

Over 500 lifeguards from around the country will compete in a number of events that will test their speed, skill and endurance in the water. Los Angeles County, the 2021 Champions, will go up against local rivals the California State Parks Lifeguard Association for ocean lifeguarding supremacy.

“Fitness and endurance are required skills for ocean lifeguards,” said Jay Butki, President of the Los Angeles County Surf Life Saving Association. “The National Lifeguard Championships is a unique event which showcases — in a highly competitive environment — the lifesaving techniques used daily by these lifeguards."

Competitors in the three-day event will also have a chance to be selected to represent the US in the World Lifesaving Championships in Riccione, Italy on Sept. 21, 2022.

Jenna Solberg, LA County Fire Department Ocean lifeguard and experienced competitor, said she is feeling good as she has always loved competing. After events all week, Solberg said she is tired, but is excited to welcome people to her home turf of Hermosa Beach.

"One thing with surf racing is that anything can happen in the ocean," Solberg said. "That makes racing so much more fun that your average dip in the pool or run around the track."

Events in the competitions include rescue races, ocean swims, beach flags, Ironman events, Taplin Relay, surf ski and surf boat races.

Day one starts at 8 a.m. on Aug. 11 and will go until 6 p.m. at Hermosa Beach between lifeguard towers 13 and 16. The whole event will run from Aug. 11 to Aug.13.