Pressure's on as lifeguards from across Alberta descend on UCalgary for annual competition

Lifeguards from across Alberta are poised to compete for the title of best team this Sunday at the third annual UCalgary Lifeguard Games. But when it comes to this out-of-the-box event, what makes the best team might not be exactly what you think.

“Sure, we test standard skills like swimming ability, fitness and rescue knowledge, but we really want to see which of these teams is going to band together when the pressure is on and make good decisions that could potentially save a life,” said Dominique MacDonald, aquatic manager at the University of Calgary.

Though the stakes may seem high, MacDonald reveals the true reason she and her dedicated staff launched this event two years ago.

“We just wanted to make staff training fun,” she said. “My staff are so excited to compete. They’ve been practising in the pool for weeks — without anybody telling them to. I love seeing them so motivated.”

The competition is set up so it’s not only the fittest of the fit who can be successful. Events can range from memory games and communication challenges, to first-aid tests and simulated in-pool rescue scenarios.

“It takes a well-rounded lifeguard to be successful,” said MacDonald.

The reality is that lifeguarding is a job where you really could save someone’s life. According to the Canadian Red Cross, an average of more than 500 Canadians die each year from water-related fatalities.

Staying sharp is key, says MacDonald, who’s thrilled to see more teams than ever travelling to the competition from out of town.

“We have teams coming from nearby pools in Cochrane and Olds, and as far away as Edmonton and Lethbridge. We’re hoping in the future we can even attract teams from other provinces as we gain momentum,” MacDonald said.

The UCalgary Lifeguard Games is looking for volunteers of all swimming abilities and skill levels. 

They are especially looking for people to come for a free swim between 1-3 p.m. on Sunday, April 29, to help fill the pool during the rescue scenarios. Families are welcome and there is no requirement to participate in a rescue.