The most exciting event at our lifeguard competitions is beach flags. This event is fast paced and fun to watch. Competitors line up in the sand on their stomachs, heads facing away from the course, and hands folded in front under their chins. When the official gives the command competitors stand, turn, and sprint as fast as they can about 30 yards to the opposite end of the course where there are batons (usually flexible pieces of hose) sticking out of the sand. There is one less baton then there are athletes so it is usually imperative to dive and secure your baton as quickly as possible. The lifeguard without a baton at the end of the heat is out and officials take one more baton away. This goes on until there is only one lifeguard holding a baton and is declared the winner. Check out the action in this video!
