Nippers are lifeguards in training and there is nothing as exciting as a Nipper competition where clubs from across the country get together to meet and compete. Each season, (pre-Covid) there are roughly 4 – 5 competitions, including friendly competitions as well as Western Province Champs and the penultimate SA Champs.
The competition days are exhilarating and fun for all the Nippers as well as the spectators. As a club, we focus on encouraging our Nippers to participate. This is where we see the most personal development, levels surpassed and friendships for life made. Winning medals is an added bonus.
All Nippers are required to pass their age appropriate exam (Level 1, 2 or 3) to be eligible for competitions. The theory part of the exam focuses on water safety rules, basic personal first aid, lifesaving signals and rules. The practical part is a fitness test which includes a run-swim-run, sit ups and push ups.
WHAT DOES THE AWARDS TEST ENTAIL?
Under 10 – Level 1
Fitness:
Passed your swim test of 300m in under 8 minutes
Run-swim-run: 75m -150m -75m in under 10 minutes on the beach
100 m body board around the can and back
20 sit-ups and 10 push ups
Theory:
Water safety rules (1-5), First aid (1-5), Signals (1-5), Lifesaving (1-2)
Under 12 – Level 2
Fitness:
Passed your swim test of 400m in under 8 minutes
35 sit-ups and 15 push ups
Theory:
Water safety rules (1-10), First aid (1-8), Signals (1-9), Lifesaving (1-3)
Under 14 – Level 3
Fitness:
Passed your swim test of 400m in under 9 minutes
Run-swim-run: 150m-200m-150m in under 10 minutes at a beach
50 sit-ups and 20 push ups
Theory:
Water safety rules (1-12), First aid (1-13), Signals (1-14), Lifesaving (1-4)