Umina emerges with pool victory

Umina Surf Life Saving Club emerged victorious over all clubs in the Central Coast Branch at the Mingara Pool Challenge held on Friday, October 7.

Umina Surf Life Saving Club publicity officer Mr Carl Krucler said all competitors in the Umina team were under the age of 17.

The team comprised Indigo Verhoeven, a recent selection and the youngest member in the State Senior High Performance squad, Teigan Miller and Helen Krucler who were selected in the Central Coast High Performance Squad, James Johnson, Claire Gaffney and Mick Magurran.

"The Pool Challenge comprised eight individual and team events with an emphasis on participation and enjoyment.

"That still could not dampen the competitive drive of many attendees," said Mr Krucler.

Most events involved either obstacles to swim under, or manikins to rescue, tow with a rescue tube or relay along the pool between members.

The Umina team members placed in the top two in their heats in six out of the eight events.

In the end, they triumphed over other powerhouse clubs from the Central Coast Branch such as Avoca and Terrigal.

"The club is proud of the team's achievements.

"The local beach is clearly patrolled by lifesavers with a demonstrable capability specifically in rescue scenarios," said Mr Krucler.

The five youngsters were also medalists from the successful team that competed at the NSW State Pool Rescue Championships.

Email, 29 Oct 2011 Carl Krucler, Umina SLSC