August 26, 2019
Lifeguards have one of the most important roles in our organization, but they’re too often overlooked by many due to the fact that their primary focus isn’t on building engaging relationships with members. Instead, they focus on scanning the pool, and using their extensive training to ensure everyone’s safety in what is a very challenging environment, particularly in our Y’s often crowded, popular pools. And so, I can’t think of a better thing to do as the summer winds down than having over 100 Y lifeguards get together for some fun, bonding, chowing down and, of course, friendly competition. For the past three years, our swim leadership has held the Y Lifeguard Challenge, hosted at our great outdoor pool complex at the Y in Pasadena.
Events included such colorfully named challenges as the widget obstacle course, duck races, dress relay and slide relay, mixed in with the more serious scanning activities, rescue drills and back boarding. Our guards even got time to do what the rest of us do, simply relax in the pool and enjoy themselves! The Ward Y team took home the big trophy, their second year in a row of being so honored. The Pasadena Y’s "Mighty Ducks" and "Bay Watch Rejects" teams finished second and third. The team spirit award went to the Catonsville Y "Caty Crooks" team with the aforementioned "Bay Watch Rejects" winning the award for the Best Team name. The Golden Guard award went to Luke Repsher, from the Dancel Y in Ellicott City. Congratulations to all!
A big thanks goes out to Jennifer Umphlett, Betsy Kulp, Amy Vendt and Jill Black and all of our Y’s swim directors and coordinators who planned and carried out this event, which had representation from all our Ys with pools. Thanks also to guest judges Frank Holden, Ryan Gadow and Chalmer Miller. A big thanks to Amy Vendt's husband, Kevin, who took some great photos. Here's some of his handiwork.
A few weeks ago, I shared in an edition of our internal e-news the story of a guard at the Randallstown Y Swim Center who saved a life by his quick instincts and knowledge of a regular swimmer's habits. Lifeguarding is serious business, and we are deeply indebted to the over 350 Y in Central Maryland associates who work every single to day to make sure we all enjoy the water safely.
All the best,
John
John K. Hoey
President & CEO
The Y in Central Maryland