Lifesaving SA’s National Championships took place in Port Elizabeth over the Easter school holidays.
More than 1 600 competitors took part in over 500 events on PE’s Kings Beach and in the Newton Park swimming pool.
The SA Champs saw eight days of riveting competition.

In the Nipper competition (8–13-year-olds), Aiden Nel from Potchefstroom Central School and Aquamix Lifesaving Club in Klerksdorp outswam competitors from more than 30 other clubs (mostly coastal) to win all the pool events in his age group. He also came in second in the Male Surf Swim (open water sea swim) – the only nipper from inland to medal in this event. Aiden went on to win the SA Lifesaving Victor Ludorum trophy for Boys 11 Years and Under.

In the lead-up to the SA Championships in PE, Aiden participated in Lifesaving SA’s National Stillwater Championships at Arrow Park in Benoni in March. He won all the events in his age group except for the Malibu board, where he came in second. He was also awarded Lifesaving SA’s Stillwater Victor Ludorum trophy in his age group on this occasion.

Aiden is also a very busy young man. During the summer months, he competes in lifesaving and swimming galas. He also participates in biathlon and holds North West colours in both swimming and biathlon. He is also an avid hockey player and represents his school during the winter months.
Anyone interested in taking up this thrilling sport can contact Ciska Bobbert on 082 824 9771.