Tyne (12) is a double life-saver
His four years of Nipper training at Scottburgh Surf Lifesaving Club stood the Ugu District surfer and top KZN competitive swimmer in good stead, equipping him to deal with emergencies like this.
TYNE van Achterbergh, has once again been hailed a hero after averting a potential drowning – for the second time in his 12 short years.
In February 2018 Tyne was surfing when he noticed a woman struggling in the water off Scottburgh main beach.
He immediately went to her assistance and helped her safely to shore.
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Incredibly, Tyne again found himself in the right place at the right time one Sunday afternoon last month.
He was surfing in the mid break at Scottburgh main beach when he spotted a man caught in a bad rip current, struggling to keep his head above water.
His four years of Nipper training at Scottburgh Surf Lifesaving Club stood the Ugu District surfer and top KZN competitive swimmer in good stead, equipping him to deal with emergencies like this.
Quick thinking Tyne immediately signaled the lifeguards for help and then made his way towards the man.
“I told him to grab onto my board,” explained the young surfer.
He made sure he kept a safe distance between himself and the distressed swimmer and, still attached to the board by his leash, Tyne began making his way so shore, board and man in tow.
“One of the lifeguards was making his way towards us, but I could see he was finding it difficult due to the unsettled sea, so I continued towards the shore,” said Tyne.
When asked about how he felt knowing that he saved yet another life, modest Tyne said he felt “alright”.
“I’m just happy I got to help someone,” he added.
Tyne is a talented young man and has been chosen to represent Ugu District Surfriders at the Sea Harvest South African Junior Championships in Jeffrey’s Bay next week.
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