In a significant step towards improving water safety, Lifesaving Western Cape (LWC) has secured a three-year investment from SolidOak Insurance to support the Lifesaving Western Cape Rescue Sport Series. This new sponsorship underscores a joint commitment to prevent drownings, elevate lifesaving sports, and increase the number of qualified lifeguards across the Western Cape. Solid Oak Insurance’s investment will provide a solid foundation for lifesaving initiatives designed to engage communities, reduce water-related incidents, and create safer beaches and pools for all.
The need for this support is critical: each year, approximately 200 drownings occur in the Western Cape alone. These figures highlight the pressing need for qualified lifeguards who can safeguard beachgoers and pool users, especially as more people flock to coastal areas in the summer months. LWC’s new series aims to address this challenge head-on by nurturing the next generation of lifeguards, reducing the risk of drownings through professional water safety.
A Vision for Water Safety and Community Wellbeing
The Lifesaving Western Cape Rescue Sport Series, running from November 2024 to April 2025, brings surf and pool lifesaving competitions to prime venues, including Fish Hoek, Stellenbosch, Clifton, Milnerton, and Strand. With exciting events and categories open to qualified lifeguards, the series will foster community spirit, athletic achievement, and, most importantly, improved safety for all beachgoers and pool visitors. LWC’s partnership with Solid Oak Insurance provides critical resources to ensure lifeguard recruitment goals are met, aiming to add 200 new lifeguards across the Western Cape by 2027.
Christine Kennedy, Chairlady of Lifesaving Western Cape, expressed the impact of this
partnership: “This investment from Solid Oak is a tremendous boost for our lifesaving efforts. It
enables us to not only grow the sport but also make a real difference in drowning prevention.
Every trained lifeguard we add to our beaches means more lives protected.”
Series Highlights and Goals
● Prize Incentives: To inspire participation, the series offers substantial prize money,
drawing in top talent from local, national, and even international ranks. This reward
system will attract dedicated athletes who contribute to water safety in their communities.
● Champion Recognition: An end-of-season awards ceremony will honour the top
performers, clubs, and key contributors to lifesaving sports, further promoting water safety and community service.
A Community-Centered Initiative
Through the Lifesaving Western Cape Rescue Sport Series, Solid Oak Insurance’s sponsorship will impact every level of lifesaving in the region. This partnership extends beyond funding to include dedicated media and promotional support, engaging communities and raising awareness about the importance of water safety. Nico Ackerman, Director of Solid Oak Insurance, shared the company’s motivation: “We’re proud to invest in a programme that has such a vital impact. Every lifeguard trained, every life saved, contributes to the safety and wellbeing of our community. At Solid Oak, we believe in giving back, and partnering with Lifesaving Western Cape aligns with our mission to support initiatives that truly make a difference.”
A Brighter Future for Water Safety (2024–2027)
LWC’s long-term vision aims to elevate lifesaving as a sport while reinforcing community safety. By building a robust network of lifeguards and increasing engagement through competitive lifesaving, LWC is creating a sustainable path toward fewer drownings and a more water-safe society. The Lifesaving Western Cape Rescue Sport Series will kick off on November 23, 2024, at Fish Hoek Beach, marking the start of an inspiring season for athletes, clubs, and communities across the province.
For more information on the Lifesaving Western Cape Rescue Sport Series, media inquiries, or partnership opportunities, please contact:
Christina Mallion
Email: christina.geton@gmail.com
About Lifesaving Western Cape (LWC)
Lifesaving Western Cape is committed to reducing drownings and ensuring safer beaches across the region. Through lifesaving sports, rigorous training programmes, and public awareness, LWC aims to increase the number of qualified lifeguards and reinforce water safety across Western Cape communities.
About Solid Oak Insurance
Solid Oak specialises in providing customised insurance services to high-net-worth individuals to serve their risk management and financial planning needs. Lifesaving Western Cape and Solid Oak Insurance are excited to drive positive change, protect lives, and foster safer environments through this vital partnership.
