Camrose swimmers to compete at International Lifesaving Sport World Championships in Italy

The small central Alberta city of Camrose is producing some of the best young competitive lifesavers in the country. 

Five young swimmers from Camrose will be heading to Riccione, Italy for the International Lifesaving World Championships this fall. 

The sport involves "a variety of competitions to further develop and demonstrate lifesaving skills, fitness and motivation," according to the Lifesaving Society.

Canada's youth team will consist of 12 athletes from across the country, including three from Camrose. Two other swimmers from Camrose were named as alternates to the team.

This group of five swimmers have been training together for the last four years. The Camrose Tsunami Junior Lifeguard Club, where the group trains, is undergoing a revival after a period of shutdowns.

Their home pool at the Mayer Aquatic Centre was closed for two years for renovations, so the swimmers had to train in Wetaskiwin. During pandemic shutdowns, the athletes kept themselves in shape by swimming in local lakes.

"It's a very proud moment to see them actually go off to world [championships]," said Heather Barr, the team's coach. 

She said her team are serious and dedicated competitors.

"We have very specific routines for our teenagers to help motivate them. This group is exceptional because they are self-motivated and eager to please and eager to train."

Barr helps her students refine their skills, but said she also helps them learn how to balance their studies, private lives and swimming. 

All five athletes heading to Italy are employed at the pool as lifeguards or slide attendants. 

"This community's a lot safer for having this expertise in our community," Barr said.

William Allaway-Brager, 17, said he appreciates the supportive and